Sociology And The Environment - A Critical Introduction To Society, Nature And Knowledge

基本信息出版社:Polity (2001年5月15日)平装:224页正文语种:英语ISBN:0745613608条形码:9780745613604商品尺寸:23 x 15.3 x 1.7 cm商品重量:336 gASIN:0745613608商品描述内容简介Can sociology help us to tackle environmental problems? What can sociology tell us about the nature of the environment and about the origins and consequences of environmental risks, hazards and change? In this important new book Alan Irwin maps out this emerging field of knowledge, teaching and research. He reviews the key sociological debates in the field and sets out a new framework for analysis and practice.

Among the themes examined are constructivism and realism, sustainable development and theories of the risk society. Readers are also introduced to communities at risk, institutional regulation and the environmental consequences of technology. Particular topics for discussion include genetically modified organisms, nuclear power, pesticide safety and the local hazards of the chemical industry. Rather than maintaining a fixed boundary between nature and society, Irwin highlights the hybrid character of environmental issues and emphasizes the role of social and cultural factors within environmental policy.

Combining theoretical discussion and case-studies with a sensitivity to the concerns of environmental policy and practice, Sociology and the Environment provides an excellent introduction to an expanding and immensely important field. It will be a valuable text for students and scholars in sociology, geography, environmental studies and related disciplines.媒体推荐'Irwin inspires. Finally, an introduction to the sociology of the environment that recognizes the critical importance of knowledge in mediating the exchanges between people and nature. "Realists" and "Constructivists" are both invited to revisit their entrenched positions in a book that charts a new and evocative course in the social study of the environment.'Steve Kroll-Smith, The University of New Orleans