Planetary Hinterlands: Extraction, Abandonment and Care

The hinterland is a concept that helps us understand the global and planetary present, focusing on the human and more-than-human processes and forms of care that occur in sites defined by capitalist extraction and political abandonment.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 341 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This expansive open-access book delves into the concept of the hinterland as a vital tool for comprehending the intricate tapestry of the global and planetary present, a time marked by the enduring legacies of colonialism, the escalating precariousness of labor under late capitalist regimes, and the impending threat of climate disasters. Traditionally perceived as serving the functions of a colonial port or market town, the hinterland emerges as a lens through which to observe and explore the diverse times and spaces shaped and experienced across the conventional categories of urban, rural, wilderness, or nature. By transcending these boundaries, the concept of the hinterland brings to the forefront the vibrant human and more-than-human processes and practices of care that persist even in sites defined by capitalist extraction and political neglect.

Drawing together scholars from the humanities and social sciences, this book reimagines the materialities, affectivities, and ecologies of the hinterland across diverse places and cultural imaginations, spanning the Global North and South, urban and rural landscapes, and land and water environments. Through a multidisciplinary approach, it sheds light on the complex interconnections and interdependencies that shape the hinterland, challenging traditional narratives and revealing the hidden geographies and histories that underpin our contemporary world.

The book explores the multifaceted dimensions of the hinterland, including its economic, social, and cultural aspects. It examines how the hinterland is shaped by processes of globalization, urbanization, and technological change, as well as by historical legacies and political dynamics. It also explores the ways in which the hinterland is experienced and interpreted by individuals and communities, highlighting the diverse ways in which people engage with and navigate this complex terrain.

One of the key themes of the book is the relationship between the hinterland and the city. It explores how the hinterland is often overlooked or marginalized in urban planning and development, yet plays a crucial role in shaping the urban landscape and the experiences of urban residents. The book highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the hinterland as a vital component of the urban ecosystem, and proposes strategies for integrating it into urban planning and governance.

Another theme of the book is the role of the hinterland in shaping environmental and ecological processes. It examines how the hinterland is affected by climate change, pollution, and other environmental challenges, and how these challenges in turn impact the health and well-being of individuals and communities. The book proposes sustainable development strategies that take into account the diverse needs and values of the hinterland, and seeks to promote a harmonious relationship between human activities and the natural environment.

In conclusion, this open-access book offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the concept of the hinterland, providing a rich and nuanced understanding of the global and planetary present. By foregrounding the human and more-than-human processes and practices of care that shape the hinterland, it challenges traditional narratives and reveals the hidden geographies and histories that underpin our contemporary world. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners interested in understanding the complex dynamics of the hinterland and its role in shaping the future of our planet.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031242458
Edition number: 1st ed. 2024