The Groves effect: 50 years of influence on behaviour, evolution and conservation research

Abstract

This volume explores the complexity, diversity and interwoven nature of taxonomic pursuits primarily within the context of explorations of humans and related species, although it also delves into more distantly related species to show how taxonomy has impacted fields outside of human research. Essentially we are interested in showcasing recent research into that somewhat unique species we call humankind through the theoretical and conceptual approaches afforded by the discipline of biological anthropology. Structurally, our approach to understanding human uniqueness is tripartite in focusing on: (1) the evolution of the human species, (2) the behaviour of primates and other species, and (3) how humans affect the distribution and abundance of other species through anthropogenic impact. In this manner we weave together these three key areas of bio-anthropological endeavour and scrutinise how changes in taxonomic theory and methodology, including our fluctuating understanding of speciation, have recrafted the way in which we view animal behaviour, human evolution and conservation studies. Show more