The world is warming up rapidly and this change is most noticeable in mountains with already
observable consequences on flora and fauna. This book presents concepts methodologies and
major achievements of recent research in climate change ecology in mountains by placing this
research in a historical perspective that of travelers and naturalists of the Romantic era
and first of all Alexander von Humboldt. There is now a renewed interest both in academia and
beyond in Humboldt his writings and his view of nature. But how can we actually make use of
his writings? How can we put his philosophy into practice? How can we still learn from past
scientific figures and do a better science today? In this book the author presents how it is
possible to succeed in modern science by returning to sources by renewing the tradition of
past polymaths such as Humboldt and by having a fully humanistic approach in science. He
illustrates his point based on his 15-year experience in the study of the ecological effects of
climate change in the tropical Andes showing how he has incorporated approaches from other
disciplines from different branches of science from history and the arts to achieve a more
comprehensive view of his scientific field. Alongside hard data discoveries by past
naturalists build our understanding of the world but appealing to our emotions makes us want to
understand it. In the author's view this is a productive and enjoyable way of doing science
that speaks to our humanity and also increases our knowledge about nature. This academic
cross-over book appeals to a broad audience of students scientists or supported by attractive
illustrations to anyone interested in the adventure or making of science but not necessarily
with a scientific background.
