American Environmental Photographs, 1891-1936: Images from the University of Chicago Library
Arts & Humanities
[Detail] Pinus scopulorum Reproduction, Jemez Springs, New Mexico
The Evolution of Language
Transition from Ammophila Dune to Conifer Forest, South End of Madeline Island, Wisconsin, 1916.
In the Special Presentation "Ecology and the American Environment" we learn that the definition of "ecology" changed and evolved with the growing understanding of this field of study. Read the various definitions of "ecology" found throughout the Special Presentation, such as Danish botanist Eugenius Warming's definition in the section, "The Origins of Ecology", and the concept of bioecology in "Cowles's Contemporaries and Students." Henry Cowles' definition of "ecology," or "Ecological Succession" as he referred to it, can be further illuminated by browsing the Subject Index for images that reflect this definition. Search on succession for specific examples of this usage.
- What are the differences and similarities between the various definitions. What makes each distinct?
- What brought about the changes in the definition and understanding of the word "ecology"?
- If words communicate ideas, how important is it that we all share the same definitions?
- Have you encountered people using a word you know, but with a different definition? Perhaps you have had the experience of using a slang word with a person who misunderstood what you meant. What was the result? How did you clarify the misunderstanding? What words did you have in common?
- Can one ever be certain that others are hearing your words as intended?
