Voices from the Environmental Movement: Perspectives for a New Era

Ten environmentalists contribute essays on a variety of leadership issues in the field. They offer a mix of theoretical discussion (for example, on the desirability of a dialogue between environmentalists and theologians to develop a conservation ethic) and constructive suggestions (ways in which academia can play a more forceful role in the movement). Topics discussed include developing a cohesive vision that can make environmentalism as much a national priority as commerce and defense; the historic and current roles of women and minorities in both the rank and file and leadership of the movement; the collision between traditional, technically oriented organizations and contemporary grassroots groups, which tend to be highly political; the affinity between social justice and conservation; and environmentalism on an international level. While this collection ably analyzes current issues and proposes meaningful solutions, its scholarly, somewhat dry presentation makes it a better choice for the student or practitioner than for the interested generalist. Snow is the author of Inside the Environmental Movement. (Mar.)