Dolphins have long been attributed with intelligence, but do they have
souls? Self-awareness? Compassion? Scott Taylor, Director of the
Cetacean Studies Institute, investigates the history, mythology, and
science surrounding these creatures and emerges with a resounding yes.
And not only do whales and dolphins merit our attention and respect in
their own right: they are an index to what our future as a species can
be.
In this multi-faceted cetology compendium, Taylor surveys the portrayal
of dolphins and whales in works of literature as disparate as Moby
Dick and Sumerian legend, examines biologist John Lilly's research on
interspecies communication, and explores the benefits of
dolphin-assisted swimming therapy for disabled children and adults.
Looking at the world from the perspective of one of these "souls in the
sea," Taylor suggests that cetaceans are an ideal bridge between
humanity and nature. Poetically written and thoughtfully illustrated
with photos and drawings, Souls in the Sea is a comprehensive
celebration of the biology, history, and mystique of dolphins and
whales.