Parasitic manipulation: a social context.

Thomas et al. (2005) conclude their interesting review of parasitic manipulation in an optimistic tone and state that “the study of manipulation is far from being weak”. This serves as a timely antidote to Poulin’s sobering message of a Kuhnian type weakening paradigm (Poulin, 2000). This is not to say that the authors find fault with Poulin’s analyses, but rather they find reasons for optimism through their emphasis on multiple approaches, such as detailing proximate mechanisms of control (e.g. proteomics), insights through comparisons with broader behavioural ecol r p l a P i t h t o o h s t et al., 2003). However, some hosts groups, which may have potential benefits, have been underexploited. With this in mind I would like to draw the reader’s attention to the potential of social insects (wasps, bees, ants and termites) as model systems in which to study parasitic manipulation of host behaviour. The social insects can be seen as victims of their own success! Insect societies have long fascinated man as evidenced by their mention in the Bible “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise” (Proverbs 6:6). E.O. Wilson called them “among the