Dr. Tierney Brosius discusses tenacity, insect ecology, and conservation biology. Can an insect’s perceived beauty or ugliness affect our willingness to allow it to go extinct?

“Lives of the Mind” explores the passions and pursuits of liberal arts professors. It is sponsored by Augustana’s Austin E. Knowlton Honors Program, which aims to enhance the college’s mission as a liberal arts institution through an interdisciplinary course of study as well as by cultivating intellectual curiosity and encouraging lifelong learning.