Radical Ecology, Second Edition

by Carolyn Merchant

This is a new edition of the classic examination of major philosophical, ethical, scientific and economic roots of environmental problems which examines the ways that radical ecologists can transform science and society in order to sustain life on this planet. It features a new Introduction from the author, a thorough updating of chapters, and two entirely new chapters on recent Global Movements and Globalization and the Environment.

Genres: Ecology, Philosophy, Nonfiction, Politics, Nature, Theory, Activism

302 pages, Paperback

First published August 14, 1992

About the author

Carolyn Merchant is an American ecofeminist philosopher and historian of science most famous for her theory (and book of the same title) on The Death of Nature, whereby she identifies the Scientific Revolution of the seventeenth century as the period when science began to atomize, objectify, and dissect nature, foretelling its eventual conception as composed of inert atomic particles. Her works are important in the development of environmental history and the history of science. She is Professor emerita of Environmental History, Philosophy, and Ethics at UC Berkeley.

Reviews

[T.R. Ormond · Rating 2 out of 5]

Merchant's Radical Ecology gives an overview of the various ecology philosophies and movements that emerged in the latter half of the 20th century. It introduces readers to Deep Ecology, Spiritual Ecology, the Sustainable Development movement, Ecofeminism, and Marxist/Socialist Ecology (etc). The further reading section at the close of each chapter is this book's primary asset. Another benefit is that Merchant summarizes and cites many works that are difficult to come by because they have been published by non-mainstream sources. Perhaps they are on the fringe for good reason, but at least we can have some access to those ideas via this book.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Merchant expertly explains the different types of radical ecoloical thought, from femminist to spiritual and social ecology. Excellent as an intro in the historical and current ecological movement.

[Chrissy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Educational, but lacked pizzaz.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introduction on the many varied branches of the radical ecology and environmental/green movements. A survey of different movements and paths of thought. Definitely recommend for anyone who is interested in reading more ecological theory but doesn't know which thinkers/movements to focus on. A little outdated, would love to see an updated version with some of the events, organizations, and figures of the 21st century but nevertheless is still very relevant to readers today!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good overview of different schools of thought in ecology and environmental activism. I appreciated the author's willingness to remain fairly neutral throughout the book, giving both the positives and negatives of each worldview, while still ultimately pushing for an ethic that values humans and nonhuman nature. The language was engaging and not overly academic or dry, so it's a good choice for those who are relatively unfamiliar with this topic.

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

This text seriously needs an update, both in terms of the data cited and the language used (i.e. the use of First World and Third World terminology). I also think that I would have been lost with this text if I did not come to it with some background knowledge; there are a lot of sections that are not at all friendly to someone just starting out with environmentalism or philosophy.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and though-provoking. Interesting look at different movements in ecology and their supporters and detractors. Provided another perspective that made me think critically about groups/organizations I thought I knew about already.

[Melda Ece Kelemcisoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good introduction to radical ecology and the green liberation movement.

[Mckinley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Principles of deep ecology
1. metaphysics -- humans-in-nature and not humans about it
2. philosophy -- self/person intermingling with planet
3. anthropology -- horticultural dwellers and not developers of land
4. ethic -- ecocentric and not homocentric or anthropocentric, duty to maintain integrity of ecosphere
5. ecologically-based science --process oriented, designs based on nature, use technology to acheive diversity

I only read chapter 4, which was good to understand the term, and 8 about ecofeminism, (domination of women and nature) production and reproduction),arising in 1970s . I may get back to this some day.

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was read for ENG 360A Class taken in 2007.


Readings Environmental Novel English Class required book.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great for situating the Transition Movement within the wider ecology movement.

[Stevie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, but so very dry. Read for my Environmental Philosophy class.