The Barcelona School of Ecological Economics and Political Ecology: A Companion in Honour of Joan Martinez-Alier

This book combines ecological economics and political ecology to address urgent matters at the intersection of society, economy, and the natural environment. It offers interdisciplinary exchanges and combines historical accounts with recent theoretical and empirical developments.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This open-access book brings together the traditions of ecological economics and political ecology into a unified academic school. It serves as a common platform where diverse and critical perspectives converge, addressing a wide range of pressing issues at the intersection of society, economy, and the natural environment. The manuscripts included in this compendium provide valuable insights for both seasoned and emerging researchers who are eager to engage in interdisciplinary exchanges within the field of social environmental sciences. The book seamlessly blends historical accounts with recent theoretical and empirical advancements centered around the interplay between three fundamental concepts of the Barcelona School: social metabolism, environmental justice, and self-reflective science.

The integration of these concepts offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex dynamics between human societies, their economic systems, and the environment. By exploring the interconnections and interactions between these three realms, the book sheds light on the underlying mechanisms that drive environmental degradation, social inequality, and the challenges of sustainable development.

One of the key strengths of this book is its ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice. It provides a rich theoretical foundation while also offering practical examples and case studies that illustrate the application of these concepts in real-world situations. This interdisciplinary approach enables researchers and practitioners to gain a deeper understanding of the complex challenges facing our planet and develop innovative solutions to address them.

Furthermore, the book emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and reflexivity in the study of social and environmental issues. It encourages researchers to critically examine their own biases, assumptions, and power dynamics, and to engage in ethical and socially responsible practices in their research and advocacy. This commitment to ethical practice is essential for building trust and credibility in the field and for ensuring that the outcomes of research are beneficial to society as a whole.

In conclusion, this open-access book serves as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and activists seeking to understand the complex interplay between society, economy, and the natural environment. By bringing together the traditions of ecological economics and political ecology, it offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to addressing the most pressing social and environmental challenges of our time. The manuscripts included in this compendium provide a wealth of insights and ideas that will inspire and inform future research and action.

Weight: 652g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031225680
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023