Principles' nineteen chapters address several themes, including introductory topics that serve as the foundation for the field, population-level issues, community and ecosystem-level concerns, and a large section on human dimensions, the practical application of conservation biology in a real and complex world. Two chapters specifically grapple with complex management and sustainable development issues using a series of case studies written by individuals intimately involved with problem solving.

The Second Edition features a new chapter on becoming more effective in implementation of science in conservation policy, a much expanded and in-depth treatment of ecosystem management, a large number of new and updated guest essays and case studies, and rigorous revisions throughout. The book is richly illustrated, and chapters are complemented with annotated reading lists and questions designed to stimulate thought and class discussions. Principles of Conservation Biology concludes with an extensive glossary of useful terms and a large bibliography that has proved a valuable reference for students and researchers.