Deep Things out of Darkness A History of Natural History

Natural history, the deliberate observation of the environment, is arguably the oldest science. This title chronicles the rise, decline, and ultimate revival of natural history within the realms of science and public discourse.

“A sweeping work of passion and erudition, Deep Things Out of Darkness deftly traces the rise, decline, and recent revival of natural history in the West. Through a series of carefully crafted biographical vignettes of famous naturalists—from Aristotle to Rachel Carson—Anderson highlights the accomplishments of the men and women who have struggled to comprehend the earth’s teeming biodiversity."--Mark V. Barrow, Jr., author of Nature’s Ghosts: Confronting Extinction from the Age of Jefferson to the Age of Ecology

"This book resonates with the persistent joy of discovery. We are invited into the lives of naturalists known and unknown, and we get to see the world as they saw it, showing us the path our craft has taken through the deep woods of time. Anderson explores the evolving ecology of natural history, underlining the impact of social pressures and the individual passions of those who shaped our view of the natural world. Deep Things is a must-read for those who call themselves naturalists—and many more of us should!"--Joshua Tewksbury, Walker Professor of Natural History, University of Washington

“A remarkable work of scholarship that reads like a spirited conversation with a very smart friend. Anderson has delved into the depths of original historical texts and re-emerged to write an engaging story of the human quest to understand our more-than-human neighbors. An invaluable resource for scholars, and—more important—a fun read for us all.”--Thomas L. Fleischner, Director, Natural History Institute, Prescott College