Beyond Sustainability: A Thriving Environment

This book approaches the study of the environment from two academic disciplines: both sociologists and philosophers have concerns about our environment’s ability not only to sustain itself but to thrive. The book examines the differences between “sustainability” and “thrivability.” Such topics as the sixth mass extinction (now underway), fracking, plastics, food waste and deforestation are explored. The book also considers the skepticism about humans’ being the cause of a deteriorating environment and details nature’s adverse role in harming the environment. Finally, the text gives reasons why choosing a thrivability approach is not only (obviously) beneficial but quite possible, and discusses practical ways in which thrivability can be taught. Instructors considering this book for use in a course may request an examination copy here.