The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 faces significant challenges in effectively protecting at-risk species while maintaining societal order. This collection of essays explores the intricate entanglement of biology, politics, and economics in species protection policy. With nearly 1200 species listed and only a dozen successfully recovered, the authors investigate the political realities influencing conservation efforts on both public and private lands. The book examines crucial economic questions, including cost allocation, benefit distribution, and the impact of interest group behavior on policy outcomes, despite the ESA's directive for scientific priorities.

This collection is regarded as a critical examination of the complexities inherent in species protection policy, particularly concerning the Endangered Species Act. The essays are noted for bringing together diverse perspectives from economists, biologists, and political scientists to address the policy challenges. The work highlights the economic and political factors that often complicate purely biological conservation goals. It is recognized for its in-depth analysis of who bears the costs and who reaps the benefits of conservation efforts.