Climate and the Picturesque in the American Tropics

The biggest challenge of the twenty-first century is to bring the effects of public life into relation with the intractable problem of global atmospheric change. Climate and the Picturesque in the American Tropics explains how this separation between climate and sensibility predates the rise of modern climatology and has deep roots in the era of colonial expansion.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The twenty-first century faces a daunting challenge: to reconcile the impact of public life with the intractable issue of global atmospheric change. Climate and the Picturesque in the American Tropics delves into the historical roots that led us to perceive the climate as an abstract and distant force, rather than a dynamic entity that shapes our existence. The book argues that this separation between climate and sensibility predates the emergence of modern climatology and has deep connections to the era of colonial expansion, when the American tropics were transformed into the economic backbone of Euro-American empires.

Through a novel interpretation of the writings of American travelers in the Caribbean during a crucial period between 1770 and 1860, the book reveals how these authors contributed to the development of a new understanding of the climate. During this time, the region was plagued by debates over slavery, environmental degradation, and colonialism. By examining the ways in which these authors engaged with the American tropics, the book demonstrates that they drew upon a climatic epistemology that fused scientific knowledge with emotional insights. This approach resonates with contemporary citizen science efforts, which aim to bridge the gap between scientific understanding and public engagement.

Climate and the Picturesque in the American Tropics offers a fresh perspective on the genealogy of modern climate thinking. By challenging the prevailing notions of tropicality deeply ingrained in American culture, the book highlights the urgency of reevaluating our understanding of climate justice and debt. It urges us to revisit the ways in which we perceive and interact with the natural world, recognizing the profound impact that our actions have on the planet's climate.

In conclusion, Climate and the Picturesque in the American Tropics is a thought-provoking and timely book that sheds light on the complex relationship between climate, sensibility, and the historical forces that have shaped our understanding of the environment. By exploring the interplay between science, emotion, and colonialism, the book offers valuable insights into the challenges we face in addressing global atmospheric change and promotes a more holistic and inclusive approach to environmental stewardship.

Weight: 498g
Dimension: 241 x 162 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192868305