Sociology Chapter 14

Learning Objectives (LO):
- LO1: Factors posing environmental challenges
- LO2: Growing awareness of environmental issues
- LO3, 4: Environmental sociology
- LO5: Strategies for better environmental choices

"First Wave" (1960s-1970s)
- Highlights: pollution, environmental disasters, resource depletion
- Solutions described as "Band aid"
"Second Wave" (1980s onward)
- Focus: impacts of global climate change

Ecological Modernization
Treadmill of Production
- This growing subdiscipline studies the relationship between society and the environment
Human Exemptionalism Paradigm
- Views nature as separate from society
- Emphasizes an anthropocentric outlook and reliance on technology
New Ecological Paradigm
- Focus on interdependence, unintended consequences, and limited resources

Functionalist Perspective
- Emphasizes ecological modernization and coexistence for collective good
Conflict Perspective
- Highlights trends of economic expansion and consumption
- Proposes that growth can solve problems, advocating for large business expansions and social control

Sustainable Living
- Encourages changes in individual habits:
  - Eating
  - Energy use
  - Waste management
  - Purchasing decisions
Sustainable Development
- Advocates for group habit changes:
  - Eliminating corruption
  - Fostering higher standards of living and production

Overconsumption, population growth, industrialization, and urbanization are key factors contributing to environmental challenges.
The first and second waves of environmental awareness highlighted different issues.
Environmental sociology blends empirical study with practical application for understanding society-environment relationships.
Promoting better choices at individual, group, organizational, and institutional levels is crucial for sustainable solutions.