Society and the Environment: Pragmatic Solutions to Ecological Issues

by Michael S. Carolan

Talking about global environmental issues need not be an exercise in gloom, doom, and individual sacrifice—as Michael Carolan ably demonstrates in this introduction to environmental sociology.

Society and the Environment examines today's environmental controversies within a socio-organizational context. After outlining the contours of "pragmatic environmentalism," Carolan explores the material world: air, water, biodiversity, and trash. He considers the pressures that exist where ecology and society collide, such as population growth and its associated increased demands for food and energy. Finally, he drills into the social/structural dynamics—including political economy and the international legal system—that create ongoing momentum for environmental ills.

This interdisciplinary text features a three-part structure in each chapter that covers "fast facts" about the issue at hand, examines its wide-ranging implications, and offers pragmatic consideration of possible real-world solutions. Bolstering the analysis, a variety of boxes highlight relevant case studies as well as the value judgments which lurk everywhere in talk about environmental phenomena. Discussion questions and key terms enhance the text's usefulness, making Society and the Environment the perfect learning tool for courses on environmental sociology.

Genres: Sociology, Environment

352 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2013

Reviews

[Cass · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good, positive, and educational. Read for SOC 291.

[abbey]

didn’t technically read every chapter of this, but every chapter I did read was read twice over so I think I’ve earned marking this

[Jacob Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book for a class. I found it very informative and well written. Very interesting insight into the sociological impacts of climate change.

[Angel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for SOC 383