Society and the Environment

by Michael S. Carolan

The fourth edition of Society and the Environment centers its discussion on realistic solutions to the problems that persist and examines current controversies within a socio-organizational context, shifting focus away from simply explaining what is wrong with the world around us. Introducing this “pragmatic environmentalism,” Carolan discusses the complex pressures and variables that exist where ecology and society collide, with population growth, the increase in demands for food and energy, and transportation and its outsized influence on urban and community patterns. With further attention given to the social phenomena and structural dynamics driving today’s environmental problems, the book concludes with an important reflection on truly sustainable solutions and what constitutes meaningful social change. Each chapter in this interdisciplinary text follows a three-part structure beginning with an overview of what is wrong and why. This leads into a discussion on each issue’s wide-ranging implications and, finally, a balanced consideration of realistic solutions. Featuring updated and expanded examples, discussion points, and coverage of recent developments including the US withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, “booming” national economies and wealth distribution, growing global interest in environmental justice―with particular focus on the links between injustice and race and inequality―climate change, and renewable energy, this new edition remains an essential companion for courses on environmental sociology and sustainability.

Genres: Sociology, Environment

362 pages, Hardcover

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