Michael Charles Tobias is a global ecologist, anthropologist, historian, explorer, prolific author and filmmaker. He obtained his Ph.D.in the Department of History of Consciousness from the University of California-Santa Cruz, and has conducted ecological field research in some 100 countries, on every continent. The author of over 60 books (both non-fiction and fiction) and hundreds of papers, he has in addition written, directed and/or produced countless films - TV series, documentaries, and dramas mostly pertaining to environmental, cultural or scientific issues and themes. His works have been translated and/or viewed throughout the world. Tobias has been a professor on numerous faculties - from Dartmouth College to the University of California-Santa Barbara. Recipient of many awards, he received in 1996 the "Courage of Conscience" prize for his commitment to nature and non-violence. Dr. Tobias is the long-time President of the Dancing Star Foundation, which focuses on animal rights, biodiversity conservation and environmental education throughout the world.