Do Lemmings Commit Suicide?: Beautiful Hypotheses and Ugly Facts

Book Description

Unlike nearly all science books which tell of successful ventures and satisfactory conclusions, this book reveals the harsher but more common side of scientific research. Written by one of this century's most distinguished small mammal ecologists, it is both a personal history of and an apology for a life in science spent working on problems for which no final dramatic closure was reached. Included along the way are important anecdotes and history about Charles Elton and his pioneering work at the Bureau of Animal Population at Oxford University, from which much of modern population has grown, and insights on the philosophy and practice of science. This eye-opening account of a scientific career should be read by everyone in life sciences or the history and philosophy of science.

Customer Reviews:

Science, shown as fits and starts and roundabouts..........2004-01-10

Chitty's candid assessment, while not without its biases, shows the reader how science works, not linearly or dispassionately as many assume, but with different camps expending not inconsiderable passion. It also shows the amount of effort a scientist working in this field must expend (and how little control he/she has over the process being measured).

Ideally, the most valid hypothesis matures into the category of scientific theory while its nestlings die. This seems not to have happened in this area--at least according to the author. In the 1950's, Dennis Chitty seems to have abandoned more supportable (and subsequently, supported) theories. Now, years later he is still looking for the grail of genetic change despite the lack of scientific support this idea seems to have. If genetic change were the mechanism behing population cycles, breeding experiments should have been able to identify the genotypes, and the genes responsible.

Nevertheless, I strongly recommend this book given the view it shows of the field of rodent population ecology. I think D.E. Davis' statement in this book says it best. Looking for the causes of cycles obscures what we really need to understand, regulation.

A Grand old man of Ecology looks back.......2002-12-24

This book, part autobiography, part critical assessment of the last fifty years in field ecology, represents a fascinating "summing up" of a lifetime career in pursuit of explanations for the abundance of animals in the wild. Chitty is remarkably candid about his own successes and failures, and one sees with clarity the attitude of a good scientist: no hypothesis, however elegant, is immune from "ugly little facts" that refute it. Along with Chitty's own work we get delightful cameo appearances (both flattering and otherwise) of many of the "greats" of mid-century ecology and evolutionary theory. Chitty makes it quite clear who he resepects and who he has difficulties with, and his commentary serves to humanize the "doing" of ecology. My only question is, how long will it take for the common sense shown in this book to penetrate contemporary text-books, many of which persist in errors that Chitty ably shows have been discarded by real practicioners often decades ago.

Excellent Book.......2000-12-02

Interesting, with great photos and info about some of natures greatest mysteries... I love the title as well =)

Average customer rating:

DO LEMMINGS COMMIT SUICIDE?
Dennis Chitty
Manufacturer: Oxford University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OKETEY

Book Description

The Jewel Tea Company of Chicago, Illinois reached a national market for its household products through salesmen and mail order catalogs from 1901 until 1981. the company's Autumn Leaf Pattern china-featured throughout the text-was widely distributed and frequently graced dinner tables earlier this century. It is fondly remembered and sought by today's collectors. Rarely seen Autumn Leaf wares are explored along with a brilliant assortment of better known pieces. A combination of modern color and historic black and white photographs chronicle the staggering array of Jewel Tea wares including china, cookware, coffee and teapots, premium products, children's toys, and more. There is something for everyone in this impressive, photograph-filled and thoroughly researched text with price guide.

Customer Reviews:

The Jewel Tea Company: Its History and Products.......2006-07-21

Loved the book. Very helpful in cateloging my collection and finding new pieces to search for. Anyone who has Jewel Tea would benefit from owning this book.

Jewel Tea Company, Its History and Products.......1999-12-26

A must read book for any Jewel Tea Collector. A very easy AND informative book. The author is extremly knowledgeable about Jewel Tea. I highly recommend this book!

Jewel Tea: Sales and Houseware Collectibles : With Value Guide (A Schiffer Book for Collectors)

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Jewel Tea: Sales and Houseware Collectibles : With Value Guide (A Schiffer Book for Collectors)
C. L. Miller
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Collectors Encyclopedia of Hall China

ASIN: 0887408982

Book Description

The housewares for every purpose-including the well-known Autumn Leaf Pattern dinner wares, the stories of the salesmen who delivered them, and the history of the Jewel Tea Company that sent them forth are explored in great detail in this fascinating book. Over five hundred color and historic black & white photographs accompany the text. Among the product lines explored are Jewel Tea dining services and all the accoutrements to set the perfect table, kitchen wares and cookbooks, household products recommended to furnish the new bride's home, sales items for men only, and toys for children which may stir fond memories of your own. The chapter on unusual sales and premium items found only in collectors' homes today will delight all who are interested in this major twentieth century firm.

Popular Glass of the 19th & 20th Centuries: A Collector's Guide (Miller's Collector's Guides)

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Popular Glass of the 19th & 20th Centuries: A Collector's Guide (Miller's Collector's Guides)
Raymond Notley
Manufacturer: Mitchell Beazley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1840001887

Miller's: Goss & Crested Wares: A Collector's Guide (The Collector's Guide Series, 16)

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Miller's: Goss & Crested Wares: A Collector's Guide (The Collector's Guide Series, 16)
Lynda Pine
Manufacturer: Mitchell Beazley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1840003545

Book Description

Miller's Collector's Guides is a series of books aimed at providing an essential introduction to varied and popular subjects for the budding collector. Reflecting the growing trend in the antiques market towards "collectibles" (small, often affordable items) these practical guides are filled with ideas on how to form a collection, what to specialize in, and how to identify objects. Often showing specially photographed items, these are guides no collector can afford to be without.

Miller's: Ceramics of the 50's & 60's: A Collector's Guide (The Collector's Guide Series, 17)

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Miller's: Ceramics of the 50's & 60's: A Collector's Guide (The Collector's Guide Series, 17)
Steven Jenkins
Manufacturer: Mitchell Beazley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1840003723

Book Description

Ceramics of the 1950s and 60s are now a distinct collecting field—and, best of all, the items are both widely available and affordable. This Miller’s guide covers factories from Britain, continental Europe, and the USA, and contains information on designs and marks to help with identification.

Miller's 20th-Century Glass (Miller's Guides)

Average customer rating:

Excellent Resource

Miller's 20th-Century Glass (Miller's Guides)
Andy McConnell
Manufacturer: MITCH
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1845330994

Book Description

Now that the 20th century is over, new historical perspectives are changing the value of collectables more quickly than collectors can follow. An author whose own collections exceed 20,000 glass pieces analyzes and presents over 2,000 pieces of affordable, available 20th-century glass objects in collector-friendly style, going country by country in alphabetical order. His unique timeline chart traces the century’s progression of designers such as Per Lütken, Timo Sarpaneva, Nanny Still, and Alexander Hardie Williamson, along with mass-produced works from manufacturers like Holmegaard of Denmark and Littala of Finland; plus, he offers predictions about current designers. Photos of every object are accompanied by design drawings and close-ups of original marks, including hard-to-identify and even missing markings. Value codes are provided for each item.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Resource.......2007-05-08

This is a "must have" for glass enthusiasts. It is very well researched and covers many little known glass studios and manufacturers. The value guide is also very helpful.

Average customer rating:

Make that GREAT photos! A "must-have" aesthetic survey...
Nice Reference Book for Fine China Collectors

Miller's 20th Century Ceramics
Paul Atterbury , Ellen Paul Denker , and Maureen Batkin
Manufacturer: Mitchell Beazley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

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Reference | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 1840008504

Book Description

More and more people are being drawn to 20th-century ceramics, inspired by the availability and affordability of the pieces and by the tastes of younger collectors. This guide-the first to cover a wide range of 20th-century British and North American ceramics factories in detail-explores over 200 factories, covers pre-war designers, the innovative designs of the 1950s and 1960s, and collectibles of the future. Each item is given an up-to-date price range.

Customer Reviews:

Make that GREAT photos! A "must-have" aesthetic survey..........2006-03-09

The review below appreciated the concise information on makers, but not the SUPERB quality of the photos! I bought this book because I couldn't put it down -- and I'm not a collector. What a way to develop an appreciation of the variety of truly beautiful wares available! Every collector or general aesthete needs this title for the well-chosen and beautifully photographed examples. A sleeper price-wise, and not to be outdated in terms of breadth, now that the 20th century is over...

Nice Reference Book for Fine China Collectors.......2000-09-06

I first looked at this book at the library, then decided it was informative enough to purchase for my own china collector's library. It doesn't have prices which many do...but it has wonderful descriptions of the manufacturers and good color photographs. Used in conjunction with a Warman's book, you will be able to identify most major china manufacturers. I reccommend this highly.

Miller's: Staffordshire Figures: A Collector's Guide (Miller's Collector's Guides)

Average customer rating:

Affordable, enjoyable, and clear
Miller's Staffordshire Figures of the 19th & 20th Centuries,

Miller's: Staffordshire Figures: A Collector's Guide (Miller's Collector's Guides)
Kit Harding
Manufacturer: Mitchell Beazley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1840003073

Book Description

Customer Reviews:

Affordable, enjoyable, and clear.......2003-08-29

I just purchased and read the book "Staffordshire Figures of the 19th and 20th Centuries". I chose this book because, compared to the other Staffordshire books, this one is affordable at [money amount]. Any concerns I had about quality were dispelled when I received the book. It is a richly illustrated visual guide. The images, though smallish (1.5 in. horiz. x 2.5 in. vertically) are clear and colorful. The commentary is nicely chunked for easy comprehension, and the prose is enjoyable. A small 'fact-file' section on each recto page introduces useful tips and tidbits for collectors. Buy this one first. You'll be pleased.

Miller's Staffordshire Figures of the 19th & 20th Centuries,.......2001-02-23

As an amature collector of Staffordshire Figures, I was looking for an inexpensive book to help with my collecting. In the City where I live, one can rarely find Staffordshire figures for sale. I started collecting on ebay and through that site I ran across Miller's book that Kit Harding and A. & N. Harding, who listed Staffordshire figures, consulted in writing. I cannot say enough good things about this book for the novice such as myself. It was a great quick reference book. The descriptions of the figures and excellent color photos helped me with the basic knowledge of the figures. This book listed prices and what factors to look for in distinguishing the authentic from fake. I highly recommend this book for any serious collector.

Modern Candy Containers & Novelties: Identification & Value Guide

Average customer rating:

Buy it now for this is the best book on a HOT new collect.
A great book!
A must have!
First Book on mostly plastic candy containers!
First Book on mostly plastic candy containers!

Modern Candy Containers & Novelties: Identification & Value Guide
Jack Brush , and William Miller
Manufacturer: Collector books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Candy Containers for Collectors (Schiffer Book for Collectors)

ASIN: 1574321862

Book Description

Anyone with a sweet tooth should become familiar with the thousands of candy containers available on the market. Authors Jack Brush and William Miller have put together a comprehensive guide to hundreds of candy-filled toys and novelties, complete with information regarding the containers' original contents, colors they came in, company for which they were made, country in which they were manufactured, cost when issued, and current collector value. Many cartoon characters are featured, including those from Warner Brothers and Disney, and classic superheroes, as well as Pez dispensers, cap toys, holiday dispensers, and hundreds more, in more than 500 full color photographs. Collecting tips, a brief hstory of candy novelties beginning with the hand-blown glass variety, modern production, and discussions on the major candy container manufacturers (Pez, Amurol Confections, Hershey Chocolate USA, Topps) are included. A colorful treat - collectors will eat this one up! 2001 values. REVIEW: Due to how well book I was received by collectors, Helen Greguire produced book II. A large selection of colors, shapes, and rarities are included, as well as cross collectibles along with various pieces of literature including catalogs, posters, and advertisements.

Customer Reviews:

Buy it now for this is the best book on a HOT new collect........2002-12-31

I have seen the price double in candy containers and this is going to be a HOT new collectable. And so far this is the best book I have found and I have really looked.

Candy King.

A great book!.......2002-01-19

I think this is a great book and do recommend it.

A must have!.......2001-08-22

This book is great and a MUST HAVE for serious and casual or would be collectors of Candy Containers. I have been collecting glass Candy Containers for many years and have just begun collecting the plastic containers. This is the BEST book on the subject. It is well organized and provides just enough background on the history of candy containers. It must have taken thousands of hours to compile such an extensive list and take all those pictures... Such great detail! The price evaluations are surprisingly accurate. Even though there is a disclaimer that value is what it is worth to you and the hobby is ment for fun. What a book. I bought 6 of 'em for gifts.

First Book on mostly plastic candy containers!.......2001-06-24

I'm so happy a book finally came out on this, not so old, collecting of plastic candy containers. I can now see so many that I do not have, that will make the "hunting" so much more exciting. The book title says it all, "Modern Candy Containers & novelties", because there are few older ones listed. All in all, I think this is a great book and do recommend it to any one that enjoys collecting fun "stuff"!

First Book on mostly plastic candy containers!.......2001-06-24

20th-Century Glass (DK Collector's Guides)

Average customer rating:

excellent
Transparent goodies

20th-Century Glass (DK Collector's Guides)
Judith H. Miller
Manufacturer: Dorling Kindersley Publishers Ltd
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1405305924

Book Description

Exploring one of the fastest growing collecting areas, the DK Collector's Guides: 20th Century Glass covers all the designers, designs, and movements that are regularly collected. From Art Deco and Studio Glass to Bohemian and Scandinavian, the book has over 1,110 individually priced items.

Customer Reviews:

excellent.......2006-03-24

A very good selection of designers and examples. I miss more elaborate explanations about the technics used in glass production. Images are in very good quality and the colors are vivid and beutifull. Very recomended for an overall study of 20th. century glass art.

Transparent goodies.......2004-11-01

I think this may well become the standard reference guide for glass collectors. Beautifully designed, accessible and I thought very comprehensive in its coverage. Starting with blown and cased glass then pressed and moulded, iridescent, enamelled, painted, stained, engraved and finally cut glass. Each of these sections is broken down into national styles, for instance, the Scandinavian section of blown and cased glass covers Kosta Boda, Orrefors, Holmegaard, Riihimaki and Karhula-Iittala. All the glass shown has a caption that includes a dimension and price guide. The back of the book includes a glossary, dealer and museum addresses and that all-important index.

A particularly interesting chapter is the last one, contemporary and studio glass. Eighty-two artists are featured with one or two examples of their work. This is beautiful fine art glass and with some items it is hard to believe that they are made out of such a brittle substance. Predictably, there is not much in this section costing less than a thousand dollars.

I think it is worth commenting on the presentation. All the pages are very cleanly designed with typographic clarity for the main text, captions, key dates and designer information. The photos (over a 1,100) are presented as cutouts and almost jump off the page, all this glass looks just stunning.

BTW. The main US publishers of collector's books should study '20th-Century Glass', this is what highly visual titles should look like!

***FOR AN INSIDE LOOK click 'customer images' under the cover.

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