Species: A History of the Idea

The complex idea of "species" has evolved over time, yet its meaning is far from resolved. This comprehensive work takes a fresh look at an idea central to the field of biology by tracing its history from antiquity to today. John S. Wilkins explores the essentialist view, a staple of logic from Plato and Aristotle through the Middle Ages to fairly recent times, and considers the idea of species in natural history--a concept often connected to reproduction.

Algebraic Geometry and Statistical Learning Theory

Sure to be influential, Watanabe's book lays the foundations for the use of algebraic geometry in statistical learning theory. Many models/machines are singular: mixture models, neural networks, HMMs, Bayesian networks, stochastic context-free grammars are major examples. The theory achieved here underpins accurate estimation techniques in the presence of singularities.

This book  develops an inclusive theory that integrates psychological, aesthetic, and ethical issues relating to humor

• Offers an enlightening and accessible foray into the serious business of humor
• Reveals how standard theories of humor fail to explain its true nature and actually support traditional prejudices against humor as being antisocial, irrational, and foolish
• Argues that humor’s benefits overlap significantly with those of philosophy
• Includes a foreword by Robert Mankoff, Cartoon Editor of The New Yorker

Beaded Macrame Jewelry: Stylish Designs, Exciting New Materials

Macrame. Just the word summons up images of hideous 1960s atrocities designed to hang plants. But what was good about macrame in the 1960s is still what’s good about macrame: It’s easy, it’s fun, everybody can do it. And now everybody can get great results, making gorgeous jewelry that’s sure to astonish anyone born before the Reagan era.

Lion Brand Yarn Vintage Styles for Today: More Than 50 Patterns to Knit and Crochet

Lion Brand Yarn: Vintage Styles for Today reinterprets more than fifty vintage designs for today’s knitters and crocheters, with detailed patterns and stunning archival and contemporary photographs.
Vintage-style treasures come front and center, restyled for current lifestyles and in modern day yarns. For more than a century, Lion Brand Yarn has shaped the future of knitting and crocheting while preserving its heritage.