Publisher's Synopsis
This text looks at the connections between human societies, ecosystems and the geophysical environment. While the perspective is mostly sociological, coverage is specifically designed to be relevant to a wide range of readers and to encompass viewpoints from an assortment of disciplines. *Focuses on the interconnections between a broad range of environmental issues and trends. *Examines the human causes of environmental change. *Explores different scenarios for the future in relation to these trends. *Incorporates the most current research available and examines it from various social science perspectives *Examines the global nature of environmental problems. *Underlines the need for multilateral efforts between different parts of the world in making environmental issues important factors in security and trade agreements. *Focuses on "environmentalism" as an ideological base for environmental movements, advocacy and action in various settings. *Examines the spread of environmental concern through the worlds societies and the interaction of movements with oppositional groups and agencies.;*Discusses expert risk-assessment techniques and the impact of the social perception of risk. *Opens chapters with vignettes to engage students in the upcoming issues. *Includes end-of-chapter Personal Connections that explore links between large issues and peoples lives.
