The Ecology of Collective Behavior

Book Details

• Publisher : Princeton University Press

• Author: Deborah M. Gordon

• Binding: Paperback (Import Edition)

• Format: Illustrated / Academic Reference

• Pages: 232

• Release Date: 24 October 2023

• ISBN: 9780691232157

• Language: English

• Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.4 inches

About the Book

The Ecology of Collective Behavior by Deborah M. Gordon presents a groundbreaking new perspective on how groups—from ant colonies to human societies—function without central control. Instead, they rely on local interactions among individuals to adapt and thrive in changing environments.

Drawing on evolutionary biology, network science, and dynamical systems, this book develops an ecological approach to collective behavior, examining how interaction networks evolve and respond to environmental conditions.

Through a rich comparative study of ant species, Gordon uncovers broad patterns that explain how diverse collective systems—from cells to animal groups—adjust to dynamic surroundings. By exploring the feedback mechanisms and organization of networks, she shows how collective behavior evolves to meet ecological challenges.

Key Highlights:

• Explains how collective behavior works across biological and social systems.

• Uses ant colonies as a model to identify ecological patterns of group behavior.

• Provides insights into the evolution of interaction networks.

• Bridges concepts from biology, ecology, and complexity science.

This book is ideal for:

• Students and researchers in biology, ecology, and behavioral science.

• Readers fascinated by ants, collective intelligence, and network science.

• Anyone interested in how individual actions give rise to group outcomes in nature and society.

The Ecology of Collective Behavior is a must-read for those who want to understand how cooperation, adaptation, and innovation emerge in complex living systems.