Synopsis This book brings together Gadgil's best essays. They deal with many facets of the natural world and the world of humans, and how the two impinge on each other. In some of these he asks and answers playful-sounding questions: 'Why are blackbucks black? Are some ants creatures of restraint and forward planning?'

In others he exposes how ruthlessly man over-exploits natural resources. He talks of the need to upset the cold logic of man-made objects relentlessly replacing living organisms.

His thoughtful explorations of the lives of path-breaking scientists such as Salim Ali and M.K. Prasad show how a few exceptional people can change the accepted course of things.

Finally, he argues passionately against directing energy, water and raw materials towards intensive agriculture and urban development at the cost of the rural poor. He calls for radical changes in order that people are not denied basic information and prevented from participating in development.

This book provokes serious thought about the natural world and our relationship with it, urging us to take a hand in shaping it.