This book investigates the complex interplay between social theory and the escalating global environmental crisis. Michael Redclift, a noted scholar in rural sociology and environmental change, draws upon established sociological frameworks to analyze the root causes and societal implications of environmental degradation. The work posits that understanding these environmental challenges requires a critical engagement with the foundational concepts of social theory, particularly concerning issues of development, consumption, and global inequality.

This work is recognized for its rigorous application of social theory to pressing environmental concerns, offering a critical perspective on the societal drivers of ecological change. It is particularly valued for bridging theoretical sociology with practical environmental studies, providing a framework for understanding complex global issues. The book is likely to appeal to academics and students in sociology, environmental studies, and related fields seeking a deeper theoretical understanding of the human dimensions of environmental crises.