Bugs In The System: Insects And Their Impact On Human Affairs

by May R. Berenbaum

An introduction to insect physiology, genetics and behaviour which looks at the interaction between humans and insects, and explores both the positive and negative aspects of the relationship.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Nature, Biology, Animals, School, Gardening

400 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1994

About the author

May Roberta Berenbaum is an American entomologist whose research focuses on the chemical interactions between herbivorous insects and their host-plants, and the implications of these interactions on the organization of natural communities and the evolution of species.

Reviews

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written with considerable verve and a sly sense of humor, Berenbaum's book appeals to a wide range of audiences -- but it's authoritative enough to be used in introductory entomology courses. The main slant is how insects have affected humans, and there are a number of unexpectedly fascinating ways that insects have had a major effect on civilization. Plagues and swarms of locusts aside, the economic and health costs of some pests is incalculable, while, on the other hand, the "good" bugs (pollinators, mostly) are as essential to our food chain as oxygen and sunlight. Packed full of trivia, this is a book no bug lover (or even the bug adverse) will want to miss.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bugs in the System is an excellent introduction to insects for the non-specialist, naturalist, and the budding entomologist. Berenbaum, an expert in bees, writing in an easy, accessible style bridges the gap between scientific writing and entertainment. She weaves together important biological facts and aspects of insects, with their importance and interaction with humans, and history, both major historical events and historical developments in entomology (the study of insects).
Anyone interested in insects will find this book informative and delightful.
Highly recommended to budding entomologists and naturalists of all kinds.

[Val Cuellar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally loved it, the way Dr. Berenbaum writes about insects and the way they connect with humans is simply beautiful.

[Shawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's all about bugs, darn fascinating at times, especially the first half or so, it got long-winded past 250 pages though. It's got all the facts & bits about creeping & crawling things and is written fairly well. Every chapter's buttoned with a mini-bibliography. There weren't enough pictures & images, and the ones that were provided were all black & white, fuzzy, and just underwhelming. A book like this should have pictures everywhere! Or at least diagrams and stuff like that to explain anatomy. But the information is thorough and Berenbaum touches on everything for better or worse (she started going on miscellaneous stuff w/the last two chapters or so). I really liked getting through the book and it was a very 'healthy' read b/c it's about entomology and the world around us. I'd recommend it for a 'random, non-fiction, scientific' reading experience. However I'm sure there are true enthusiasts who'd suggest alternatives.

[Sarah Vendetti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even if you love insects it is still 4 stars. If you don't, it is 3. It is not a text book but it does start to read like one. I still love this stuff!

[Rene · Rating 3 out of 5]

this is an okay book... good for someone curious about the impact that insects have on society and culture. More of a leisurely read for the entomologically-inclined

[KitCat61 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book that explains the complex physiology, behavior, and background of insects in a way that is fascinating and comprehensive.

[eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love bugs

[Sif]

so far this book is funny as hell!

[Ashley K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent overview of major topics in entomology; would be equally enjoyable, I think, for both a lay person or a trained entomologist. Generally a fun/light read with lots of interesting trivia thrown in.