Environment and Society explores the intricate relationship between human societies and the natural environment through a sociological lens. By integrating environmental sociology and sustainability studies, this book highlights the roles of governments, activists, and individuals in fostering a just and sustainable future, urging readers to reimagine their communities and take collective responsibility for the planet.
Wendy Wiedenhoft Murphy is a Professor of Sociology at John Carroll University, specializing in Environmental Sociology, Consumer Culture, and Sociological Theory. She is the author of Consumer Culture and Society (2017), co-editor (with George Ritzer) of the Wiley-Blackwell Companion to Sociology, 2nd Edition (2020), and co-author (with George Ritzer) of Introduction to Sociology, 5th Edition (2019).
Preface Acknowledgements About the Author Chapter 1: Climate Change and Sustainability Toward a Sociology of Climate Change and Sustainability Climate Change 101 Climate Resilience: Mitigation and Adaptation Sustainability 101 Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 2: Nature, Society & Environmental Ethics A Brief History of Society and Nature Environmental Ethics: Preservation,Conservation, and Ecology Inclusivity: Eco-Feminism and Indigenous Knowledge Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 3: Population Malthusian Population Theory and its Critics Demographic Transition Model Immigration and Migration Urbanization Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 4: Consumption and Affluence Household Consumption Unsustainable Consumption: Planned Obsolescence and Waste Sustainable Consumption Affluence: The Problem or the Solution? Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 5: Technology and Energy The Transition to Green(er) Energy Renewable Energy Green Technologies Risk Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 6: Governance: Global Institutions, Nation-States, and Cities The Kyoto Protocol: Trial and Error The Paris Agreement: Lessons Learned Climate Change in the United States: Political Polarization and Policy Delay Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 7: Non-state Actors: Civil Society and the Climate Movement NGOs and the Global Climate Regime Copenhagen: COP15 and the Climate Justice Movement Fossil Fuel Divestment and Blockadia Youth & New Climate Activism Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 8: Environmental and Climate Justice Justice and Human Rights Four Forms of Justice From Environmental Justice to Climate Justice Energy Justice and Just Transition Conclusion Key Terms Discussion Questions Chapter 9: Good Health, Food Security, and Well-Being Physical Health Hunger and Food Insecurity Malnutrition: Undernutrition and Obesity Mental Health and Well-Being Conclusion Key Concepts Discussion Questions Chapter 10: Becoming Sustainable, Realizing Resilience Progress...so far Building Resilient Campuses: Sustainability in Action Conclusion Key Concepts Discussion Questions Glossary
This book is engaging, highly readable, and does a fantastic job introducing theoretical concepts into discussions of modern environmental issues. Straightforward and relatable, at once conversational and academic. -- Professor Maggie Ramirez A comprehensive overview of the work in climate change over the last thirty years, and why climate change has yet to be firmly addressed in our culture. -- Professor Erin E. Robinson Wiedenhoft-Murphy's Environment and Society is a welcome addition to the literature currently available on Environmental Sociology. The more intentional focus on social justice is especially important at this particular point in time. -- Professor Chad Sexton This book, addressed to U.S. undergraduates, is an important and much-needed step to bring the sociology of climate change in an accessible way to an undergraduate audience. -- Professor Devparna Roy Wiedenhoft-Murphy's textbook presents an excellent overview of the many complex and interconnected dimensions of the relationship between environment and society. -- Professor Harland Prechel Environment and Society's connection to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals helps it make a strong case for why environmental sociology matters. The book clearly defines concepts to help communicate complex ideas. -- Professor Michael D. Briscoe Using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as an organizing framework, this book provides a comprehensive look at the questions of governance, action, and justice regarding climate change and other environmental problems. -- Professor Charlotte Glennie Roberts
