Description
Book SynopsisHow can we save America’s wilderness areas?
Wilderness and the Common Good argues that the answer to this question lies in the actions of America's citizens. Beginning with The Wilderness Act of 1964, Dr. Jo Arney examines the state of American environmental policies and how they intersect with individual citizen action. Drawing on the work of environmental and political scientists, advocates, and philosophers, Dr. Arney argues that modern civic responsibility entails both an understanding of the importance of wilderness and citizen activism to ensure its existence. True and lasting protection for wilderness will be borne out of a shared understanding of how protected wilderness areas enriches all of our lives. Weaving in her own personal narratives, Dr. Arney shows that wild areas are not only important for the biodiversity that they safeguard but are also essential for the common good of our society.
Trade Review"Weaving together her personal story, her teaching experiences, and insightful political analysis, Jo Arney has created a thoughtful study of the relationship between citizenship and wilderness. Throughout her study, she makes an eloquent plea for a quest for common ground, rejecting the bitter divisiveness and polarization that characterizes so much of our national political life today. On the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Wilderness Act, Wilderness and the Common Good is a fitting and illuminating tribute." -- George L. Mehaffy, Vice President, American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) "Finding that common ground is a theme of Arney's new book, Wilderness and the Common Good--A New Ethic of Citizenship, which was published in May. Each chapter looks at different arguments surrounding the environment and protecting America's wilderness areas, which are then blended with Arney's personal experiences." -- La Crosse Tribune
