This is probably the fourth or fifth book I've used as a teaching assistant for a senior level course in evolutionary biology. And to be honest, I was very, very, disappointed with this book from a teaching perspective. I have two main issues with this book, organization of topics and depth of discussion.There's not a lot to say about the organization that can't be gleaned from the TOC. How do you discuss the geography of evolution and patterns of biodiversity prior to discussing mechanisms of speciation (l..
This looks to be the major text on evolution for undergrads, and it's a good one. However, it is essentially a text on evolutionary science and principles, and so if your interest is in a more detailed account of the specifics of organismal evolution at the level of the family or order you will find only spotty examples. There's quite a bit of population biology and quantitative genetics. Only in the final chapters is there a discussion of evo-devo and the importance in evolution of mechanisms such as mu..
This is the up-to-date edition of a standard in the field, recommended reading for the serious biologist. An understanding of biology hinges on an understanding of evolution. The book reads very easily, but is not "dumbed down" in any way. It covers the subject widely. It is well illustrated.