Chapter 1 introduces you to contemporary environmental problems as viewed through the lens of environmental sociology, which the chapter defines as “the study of community in the largest possible sense” (p.1). The chapter ushers you through the vast landscape of environmental sociology, focusing particular attention on:

Thinking about environmental problems as social problems;
Interdependencies between the social and ecological community; and,
The pivotal role of social inequality as a cause and consequence of environmental problems.

The chapter also introduces the central concept of the book, ecological dialogue, the endless interaction and mutual constitution of material factors (the economy, technology, development, population, and biophysical resources) and ideal factors (culture, ideology, moral values, and social experience) in ecological practice. It argues as well that the concept of ecological dialogue can resolve the debate between “realist” and “constructionist” approaches to environmental sociology, helping us chart the practices of environmental possibility.

The bulk of the chapter, however, is given over to a discussion of the three central issues of environmentalism:

Sustainability;
Justice;
Beauty of ecology.

This discussion is intended to remind you who know something about environmental issues already and to provide an environmental primer for courses that require such an overview.