Considering the skyrocketing cost of petroleum products, the less-than-admirable conditions of much of Earth’s available fresh water and many indicators suggesting global climate change, are you concerned about the future of life on this planet? Multiple Pulitzer Prize winner and distinguished Harvard professor Edward O. Wilson has considered the state of affairs and produced a great body of work on the subject. And what really draws one into his argument is the lack of apocalyptic language.

In “The Future of Life,” published by First Vintage Books in 2003, Wilson spells out the plight of the world’s ecosystems. He discusses histories of mass extinctions, follows records of endangered species including the Sumatran rhino and Ivory-billed woodpecker, and outlines key developments of genetic engineering. He illustrates the fragile balance of Earth’s ecosystems their uncertain futures, but does so without forecasting Doomsday.

This work can be viewed as one long but punctuated essay. Divided into seven chapters, it begins with some of the wonders of life on our green and blue planet. He introduces extremophiles, creatures who are capable of surviving and even thrive in unbelievable environments, and other truly incredible creatures.

Chapters entitled “Nature’s Last Stand” and “The Planetary Killer” discuss the impact Homo sapiens have historically had on the existing natural world and the difficulties modern civilization faces in trying to reverse some of these detrimental effects.

The fifth chapter, entitled “How Much is the Biosphere Worth?” was full of interesting points of consideration. Approached economically, the environment can be seen as more than just untapped material resources. It is also the sum value of the processes which it provides, such as water management through natural filtration and refilling of aquifers. He discusses the nearly limitless value of biodiversity when considering the natural world’s influence on new food, fuel and fiber sources, as well as its value for the pharmaceutical industry. It also suggests a cost-benefit analysis of numerous species of plants and animals which illustrates how priceless they truly are.

The second to last chapter drives this point home. Every species is a masterpiece, with its own name, history and “place in the world.” Wilson says that as capable thinking creatures, it is man’s duty to act as steward of the environment. It is also our responsibility, with future generations in mind, to maintain a high level of biodiversity which encourages both stability and productivity.

The final chapter is entitled “The Solution.” Throughout the entire piece, it is clear that there will be no prophesy of Armageddon or shame-inducing finger pointing. The final chapter is, rather, one of hopeful resignation. He outlines the successful work of international nongovernmental organizations, and calls for the cooperation of businesses, government and religion, as well as an educated and conscious public to guarantee the survival of Earth’s priceless biological diversity.

This work is capable of initiating great awareness and action in light of the current plight of the environment. Wilson uses common speech and examples to make this complicated and sometimes controversial subject accessible to any reader. He even includes some instances of personal anecdotes to encourage a sense of familiarity with the material.