On aggression

Konrad Lorenz was the author of some of the most popular books ever published about animals, including "Man Meets Dog" and "King Solomon's Ring". "On Aggression" was one of his finest works, as well as the most controversial.Through an insightful and characteristically entertaining survey of animal behaviour, Lorenz tracks the evolution of aggression throughout the animal world.

He also raises some startling questions when he applies his observations of animal psychology to humankind.

His conclusions caused an unprecedented controversy, culminating in a statement adopted by UNESCO in 1989 which appeared to condemn his work.Whether or not Lorenz actually claimed aggression is hard-wired into the human psyche, and that war is an inevitable result, is something readers can decide upon for themselves.

This work has powerful resonances in today's violent world.