Intertwined: From Insects to Icebergs By: Michael Gross

Author: Michael Gross

A compelling call to action to focus on what connects us in nature to solve today’s problems.

In nature, everything is from microscopic bacteria and soaring trees to animals struggling for survival amid thriving humanity. Yet many of today’s toughest problems, from environmental destruction to divisive politics, stem from fundamental disconnection. In Intertwined, science writer Michael Gross explains how the natural world can act as a powerful reminder of the core truth of our interdependence.

Using examples based on recent scientific discoveries across a broad range of ecosystems and species, Gross shares important—and often surprising—stories about the sophisticated web of connections in nature. From plant cooperation to turtle conversation, he highlights crucial lessons we can apply to solve complex problems caused by human disturbances to these connections. Gross provides ample evidence of the far-reaching impacts of both natural and anthropogenic phenomena, from coevolution and nutrient cycles to species domestication and extinction.

We live in a complex world endangered by simplistic thinking, as the escalating climate crisis and loss of biodiversity demonstrate. To address these issues, we must recognize the wonder and ubiquity of the self-regulating network that enables life on Earth, as well as the threats that endanger its functioning. These thought-provoking stories from nature prove why it is so important to remember the connections that tie us to each other and our world.