The Comparative Method in Evolutionary Biology (Oxford Series in Ecology and Evolution)

The Comparative Method in Evolutionary Biology (Oxford Series in Ecology and Evolution)

From Darwin onward, it has been second nature for evolutionary biologists to think comparatively, because comparisons establish the generality of evolutionary phenomena. Do large genomes slow down development? What lifestyles select for large brains? Are extinction rates related to body size? These are all questions for the comparative method, and this book is about how such questions can be answered. It examines how the comparative method complements other approaches, identifies the biological causes of similarity among species, and discusses methods for reconstructing phylogenetic trees, along with many other topics. The book will interest all students, professionals, and researchers in evolutionary biology, ecology, genetics and related fields. "Presents a clear and concise account of the major advances forming the 'new comparative method' . . . Harvey and Pagel's compelling survey . . . provides the basis for new and deeper insights into the origin and maintenance of organic diversity." -- Science "An authoritative and remarkably up-to-date account of the many comparative methods which have recently been put into print. . . .It is the sort of book to stimulate thinking and debate, and would be excellent material for a graduate discussion series." -- The Times Higher Education Supplement "Well written. . . .It will be a welcome addition to the bookshelf of most evolutionary biologists." -- American Journal of Physical Anthropology "Clearly describes both the nature of hypotheses and data in comparative biology and the ways in which the historical patterns and processes of evolution influence the quantatative methods used to gather and analyze data that, in turn, inform the hypotheses." -- American Scientist Paul H. Harvey is at Oxford University. Mark D. Pagel is at Harvard University.