Description
Book SynopsisGiven the escalating and existential nature of our current environmental crises, environmental sociology has never mattered more. We now face global environmental threats, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, as well as local threats, such as pollution and household toxins. The complex interactions of such pervasive problems demand an understanding of the social nature of environmental impacts, the underlying drivers of these impacts, and the range of possible solutions. Environmental sociologists continue to make indispensable contributions to this crucial task.
This compact book introduces environmental sociology and emphasizes how environmental sociologists do “public sociology,” that is, work with broad public application. Using a diversity of theoretical approaches and research methods, environmental sociologists continue to give marginalized people a voice, identify the systemic drivers of our environmental crises, and evaluate solutions. Diana Stuart shines a light on this work and gives readers insight into applying the tools of environmental sociology to minimize impacts and create a more sustainable and just world.
Trade Review“Stuart presents a superb and highly readable introduction to environmental sociology. Her coverage of up-to-date scholarly work is excellent, as is her emphasis on the utility of much of this work for ‘public sociology.’ Students will find the volume engaging, and I recommend it as a text for undergrad courses and a supplementary text for graduate courses.”
Riley E. Dunlap, Past-President, Section on Environmental Sociology, American Sociological Association
“Diana Stuart, one of the most knowledgeable environmental sociologists of her generation, is a deep and nuanced thinker who serves as an engaging guide through this field. Insightful and well-rounded, there are no better introductions to the subject than this fine volume.”
Richard York, University of Oregon
Table of ContentsPreface
Chapter 1: Environmental Sociology: In Uncharted Waters
Chapter 2: The Social Dimensions of Environmental Impacts
Chapter 3: Examining Drivers of Environmental Impacts
Chapter 4: Identifying Solutions
Chapter 5: Moving Forward
References Cited
