In order to understand the phenomena we observe in nature, we must also consider the phenomena that do not occur. This discussion-oriented session will examine the causes and consequences of several counterfactual statements from different areas of ecology, possibly including some submitted by the attendees. (An example is, "A planet has been discovered on which the greatest biodiversity is in the polar regions. Explain why this pattern might have developed.") The goal is to encourage creative thought and examine existing knowledge in a new light.