Global Life Systems: Population, Food, and Disease in the Process of Globalization [Paperback]

'Humans did not begin as a global species; we had to expand to become one. And we could not have done so without other living organisms becoming global along with us.' Robert P. Clark develops in this book a global life systems perspective that delineates how biological forces mutually reinforce one another-and what their globalization has meant for both human society and the biosphere. While he resists biological 'determinism,' Clark traces interconnected developments among population, disease, agriculture, trade, fuels, and other life systems to more thoroughly explore and elucidate the globalization of human endeavors within an ever evolving context of nature and environment. His lucid and richly documented book offers a fresh look at social evolution and a broader basis for understanding the contemporary context for global change.Robert P. Clark is professor of government at George Mason University.

This is a well-organized book, clearly argued, and the writing is accessible. The central story line is leavened with interesting examples and anecdotes to light and lighten the path. Population Studies: A Journal of Demography

In this important new book, Robert Clark shows that globalization is not a process that began twenty or even five hundred years ago, but rather has roots that are to be found thousands of years back into the human past. Moreover, it has been not just an economic process but a biological and demographic one as well. Those who wish to understand the current process of globalization in its proper historical context will do well to read this book.... Stephen K. Sanderson, author of Social Transformations: A General Theory of Historical Development

In this important new book, Robert Clark shows that globalization is not a process that began twenty or even five hundred years ago, but rather has roots that are to be found thousands of years back into the human past. Moreover, it has been not just an economic process bulór