Promotions - Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles 2014 -

This excellent work uses interdisciplinary narratives to discuss three complex topics derived from biological sciencesdiversity/variation, invasive species discourses, and women in scientific careersthrough a social science lens.  Subramaniam (Univ. of Massachusetts, Amherst) uses a combination of personal reflections, cultural parables, and scientific case studies to present an engaging, thought-provoking discussion about the assumptions that shape how science is done.  By confronting institutional and cultural assumptions about science, such as what constitutes a native versus an invasive species, this text offers a rigorous discussion drawing from feminist, postcolonial, and science studies to advocate for better scientific collaboration and research.  The three main topics are presented approachably for nonexperts while also contributing valuable insights to those in related fields in biology, science studies, and feminist studies.  The writing is insightful, witty, and well grounded in scientific (both biological and sociological) evidence.  Although the three sections may seem distinct, a careful reading draws out the deeper connections as emphasized by the author.  This book can be used effectively as a main text or a supplementary reading, depending on course topic.  The theoretical reframings offered would be useful to researchers in environmental studies, gender studies, and policy, especially those intersecting with biological topics.Summing Up: Essential. Upper-division undergraduates and above.