Debating the Earth: The Environmental Politics Reader
not part of a series
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
Debating the Earth brings together over 40 essential readings that illustrate the diversity of political responses to environmental issues. They are organized in a way that emphasizes the differences and debates across the various schools of thought on environmental affairs and there is a mixture of classic pieces and cutting-edge essays. The key debates covered include the severity of environmental problems, reformist responses to environmental issues, the environment and economics, and green critiques. The second edition includes a new section on 'The Global South and Indigenous Perspectives' which broadens the geographical scope. 25 extracts are new to this edition and there are more extracts by women.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
17-18
Length
672 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways we can help protect the environment?
How do different people around the world view environmental issues?
Why do you think it is important to discuss and debate environmental topics?
What role can individuals play in addressing environmental challenges?
Can you think of any environmental policies or actions that you learned about in this book that surprised you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and opinions without judgment. This will foster an open dialogue.
Relate the discussion to local or familiar examples of environmental issues to make the concepts more tangible.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to deepen the conversation and enhance critical thinking skills.
Share your own perspectives and experiences with environmental topics to enrich the discussion.
Highlight the importance of considering diverse viewpoints in environmental politics, and encourage empathy and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of environmental politics and how different policies can impact the Earth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be mindful of their environmental impact through simple daily actions like recycling and conserving water.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Informed Debating
Explanation: Through various essays, the book showcases how informed debates can shape environmental policies.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to research and understand issues fully before discussing or debating, promoting critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: The Role of Government and Organizations in Environmental Protection
Explanation: Essays in the book discuss the impact of government and organizational policies on environmental conservation.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of rules and regulations in maintaining our surroundings and can be encouraged to participate in local community clean-ups or other eco-friendly initiatives.
Example Lesson: Global Perspective on Environmental Issues
Explanation: The book covers environmental politics from a global viewpoint, demonstrating how interconnected our planet is.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that their actions can have a global impact, fostering a sense of global citizenship and empathy towards people and environments in other parts of the world.
Example Lesson: Economic Implications of Environmental Decisions
Explanation: Discussions in the book delve into how economic factors influence environmental policy.
Real-World Application: Teaches children that economic and environmental health are not mutually exclusive and highlights the benefits of sustainable practices to economies.