Ecologism: Towards Ecological Citizenship (Concepts in the Social Sciences) - Softcover

Smith, Mark J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0335196039 ISBN 13: 9780335196036

Publisher: Open Univ Pr, 1998

Synopsis

How should we understand nature and the environment? What does it mean to be responsible for the environment? Are social and political theories 'anthropocentric' and if the answer is yes, how do we change them? Ecological thinking within social and political theory has taken off in the past three decades. Green movements have had a dramatic impact upon political and social life, provoking conflicts of interest over major areas of public policy. This reader-friendly text examines the challenges of ecological thought for the assumptions within the traditions of social and political theory. Ecological concerns are often grafted onto existing approaches, but this book examines how the fundamental questions raised by a green perspective transform the terms of reference of modern thinking. Mark J. Smith outlines the distinctive features of ecological thought and examines two contentious areas of environmental ethics: the obligations for present generations to future generations and the relationship of human to non-human animals. Through these case studies, the author highlights some of the difficulties and contradictions of applying conventional ideas of rights and justice to environmental issues, pointing the way to a new politics of obligation grounded upon ecological citizenship. Designed as an invaluable student text in environmental studies, politics and sociology, this book is essential reading for those with a wider interest in ecology and the environment.

About this title

About the Author

Mark J. Smith is Lecturer in Social Sciences at the Open University. He previously taught at the University of Sussex and has held Visiting Lectureships in Social Theory at Queen's University (Canada) and Cultural and Critical Theory at the University of Brighton. He teaches and researches in the philosophy of the social sciences, ecology, social and political theory, cultural politics, critical theory and sociology. His recent works include Social Science in Question (1998), Situating Hayek (1998) and Green Thinking: Classic and Contemporary Readings (forthcoming 1998).

Review

"Jane Johnston also communicates a sense of effervescent enthusiasm for teaching and science and her treatment is comprehensive." - Times Educational Supplement "The ideas and recommendations, based on considerable classroom experience, make this book a valuable aid to students and reflective years' practitioners." - Primary Science Review "...a useful addition to the bookshelves of teachers." - Australian Science Teachers Journal "At last! A serious attempt to explore the scientificpotential of infant and pre-school children...will start you thinking about science in a much more positive light." - Child Education "This 'user friendly' book isrecommended for student teachers, teachers, and parents who are interested in interesting, rewarding and challenging lessons for children in science and technology education." - Science andChildren

Edition details

• Publisher: Open Univ Pr
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 0335196039
• ISBN 13: 9780335196036
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 120