THE GYROSCOPE OF LIFE
BIG BLEND RADIO INTERVIEW: Naturalist David Parrish discusses the natural world and his book, “The Gyroscope of Life.” Listen / download the podcast on BlogTalkRadio.com, Spreaker, YouTube, or SoundCloud.
Many of us recall childhood science classes with little enthusiasm, having felt alienated by seemingly esoteric concepts. Appalachian naturalist David Parrish is here to change that. The 50-year practitioner brings biological studies to the curious non-scientists in an accessible and relevant way, inspiring readers to consider the world around us in a new light.
How well are we following Mother Nature’s “house rules?” Are science and religion really in conflict? Are life and death truly binary? These are just a few of the thought-provoking questions that Parrish explores in his new book, “The Gyroscope of Life: Understanding Balances (and Imbalances) in Nature” (Pocahontas Press, 2020).
Parrish tackles concepts relating to biology and agriculture while sharing his personal experiences with religion, battling illness and more, proving not only that science is relevant to daily life, but that it profoundly impacts all of our lives. Whether you’re curious about the sustainability of modern agriculture or the accuracy of “The Big Bang Theory” theme song, David Parrish will move you to think like a scientist in his insightful, unconventional — and often humorous — love song to biology.
Parrish is proud to have been born and bred in the hills of Appalachia, and he counts himself fortunate to have worked and played in those same fascinating hills throughout his professional life. After earning his PhD in plant science from Cornell, Parrish joined the faculty of Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, where he was recognized with awards for excellence in teaching and advising. Courses he taught included crop ecology and environmental science. He co-authored a textbook, more than 50 research articles, and several scientific reviews and book chapters. His research interests spanned seed physiology, sustainable cropping systems, and biological sources for renewable energy. In retirement, Parrish and his wife of more than 50 years remain in the mountains of southwestern Virginia on the 30 acres they call Hole in the Woods. He continues to be an avid gardener and outdoors man, particularly in chasing catch-and-release smallmouth bass on the New River. “The Gyroscope of Life” is his latest work, and will be available for purchase June 2020.
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