Intended for a first-year course in general or non-majors biology, this textbook represents an attempt to get away from the tradition of weighty encyclopaedic works by using an issues-oriented approach to the teaching of biology, one that emphasizes coherent understanding of selected issues. Coverage of each issue will also include its social context, both historical and contemporary. This book builds a good foundation for upper level courses by teaching all the basics necessary for understanding advanced material while fostering their understanding of biology as a process of discovery.