摘要:Rutherford H. Pl an , in a very timely and powerful book, analyzes the "evolution of public co ntrols over land use in the U nited States from feudalism [0 fede ralism." The author is well-qualified [0 write such a treatise. Trained in political science, law, and geography, he moreover possesses the hi s[O rian 's perspective. A p[Ofessor of geography and planning law at the University of Massach userts at Amhers t, he has authored numerous writings on land use policy. He is ecology-minded, interested in biodivers ity conservation, and has served on at least six co mmittees of the National Academy of Sciences/ National Research Coun ci l.