By Edward M. Barrows
“Words are our tools, and, as a minimum, we should use clean tools. We should know what we mean and what we do not, and we must forearm ourselves against the traps that language sets us.”
— The Need for Precise Terminology, Austin (1957, 7–8)
For effective and efficient communication, it follows that individuals should share, or at least understand, the same precise terminology. Such precision is essential for the advancement of basic, theoretical, and applied science. However, ambiguity between scientific and common definitions, as well as inconsistencies within the scientific literature, remain frequent challenges.
Providing a common platform for precise scientific communication in animal behavior, ecology, evolution, and related biological disciplines, Animal Behavior Desk Reference: A Dictionary of Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution, Third Edition includes more than 800 new terms and definitions, 48 new figures, and thousands of additions and refinements.
Presented in a dictionary format for standardized and accessible reference, the main body of the book emphasizes conceptual terms rather than anatomical or taxonomic entries, focusing primarily on nouns instead of verbs or adjectives. Term hierarchies are organized through bulleted entries, while terms with multiple definitions are distinguished using superscript notation. All sources are cited, with most definitions paraphrased to ensure consistent style and length.
In addition, the dictionary incorporates nontechnical and obsolete terms, synonyms, pronunciations, notes, and commentary, as well as etymologies, term originators, and related factual information. Supplementary appendices address organism names, organizations, and relevant databases.
Devoted to the accurate and precise use of scientific language, this third edition of a widely recognized reference supports students and scientists alike in communicating research findings and advancing scientific understanding efficiently.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
- Preface
- Acknowledgements
- How to Use This Dictionary
- Introduction to Terminology in Animal Behavior and Ecology
- Alphabetical Dictionary Entries
- Concepts in animal behavior
- Behavioral ecology terminology
- Evolutionary biology terms
- Communication, learning, and cognition
- Social behavior and mating systems
- Acronyms and Abbreviations
- Appendices
- Organism names
- Scientific organizations
- Databases and reference resources
- References
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