Half Wild: People, Dogs, and Environmental Policy

by Dave Dempsey, Logan Hudson (Contributor)

Humans and canines have been cohabitating for centuries, straddling a boundary that allows us to live together within and across our species. In this empathetic volume, author Dave Dempsey explores this life on the border, the overlapping planes between humans and the nonhuman world that lead to both magnificent creation and appalling destruction. Dempsey’s forty-year career as an environmentalist gives this book a nuanced context that could only be afforded by someone who has lived a half-wild existence himself, both defending and expanding the range of protections afforded to other species. As the former environmental advisor to Michigan Governor James J. Blanchard, Dempsey’s recollections also provide a unique perspective on the history of environmental policy, ruminating on how such policy reflects the way we understand ourselves in relation to the environment. Through vignettes that recall personal stories and those that outline historical events that influenced policymaking, Dempsey calls attention to the philosophical question of how we as humans relate to animals and our environment.

114 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2022

Reviews

[Lady · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great and very interesting read. It was really refreshing reading about someone's attempts to help reduce climate change and help protect their local wildlife. I loved the way the author writing flowed so well. His has obviously lived a brilliant and very productive life. As this book was very informative and learnt so much. I really commend him for the amazing work he has done. Also for helping us understand that everyone can do their small bit. You could certainly read the great passion through his words. It was excellent learning about life in michigan, as this is a state I'm not that familiar with.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishers for bringing us this wonderful book that we can learn from and enjoy all at the same time.

[Isabelle Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read several of Dave Dempsey’s books, including “Ruin & Recovery” and “Great Lakes For Sale,” and I appreciate his engaging writing style. He makes Michigan’s environmental history both accessible and compelling. In this book, Dave takes a more personal approach to the topic by sharing insights from his 40-year career in environmental policy alongside reflections on his relationships with people, dogs, nature, and even his own health. This is an easy, captivating read with thought-provoking perspectives that linger long after the last page.