Pickett Steward T.A., Kolasa Jurek, Jones Clive G. Ecological Understanding: The Nature of Theory and the Theory of Nature

2nd Edition. — Amsterdam: Elsevier, 2007. — xi+ 233 p.We wrote this book to share with other ecologists what we have learned about the structure and use of theory and its relationship to the myriad activities that constitute modern science. Our own quest was motivated by the sometimes unclear way in which the term “theory” is used in both scientific publications and informal discussions. We needed to find out what theory was and how it was built. We also wanted to evaluate the varied and often contradictory claims made about what constitutes proper scientific practice. Is prediction really the highest or only goal of science? How might it relate to other activities in which scientists engage?
In particular, the book examines these questions:
Why be concerned with integration in ecology?
What is understanding and how does it relate to integration?
What is theory and what are its parts? How is theory classified and how does it change?
What drives change in theory and hence change in understanding?
How, exactly, does change in understanding promote integration?
What scientific and social factors limit integration?
How does ecological understanding relate to the larger society?
In our discussion, several themes emerge. First, a broad view of theory is supported by modem philosophy and the history of science. This broad view links the empirical and conceptual approaches that are often considered to be separate. Second, an objective view of scientific understanding emerges that can accommodate the variety of seemingly disparate activities that scientists practice. Finally, we identify some large targets for integration in ecology.
This book is intended for anyone who has some background in ecology, beginning with advanced undergraduates. We do refer briefly to some ecological examples but must depend on other sources for the detail. To supply a large number of ecological examples here would obscure the broad picture of understanding and the use and structure of theory we wish to present. We hope the book will be useful and interesting to ecologists of all kinds. Of course, we hope it stimulates application of the general approach in a variety of ecological realms. Using the framework, we present, ecologists should be able to assess the status of theory and understanding in their own topic areas.