Undersea Geopolitics: Sealab, Science, and the Cold War

This book explores the practice and construct of 'territory,' 'terrain,' the 'elemental,' and the interrelationships between these material phenomena and human and non-human bodies through a series of little-studied undersea living projects conducted by the US Navy during the Cold War. It suggests future research trajectories in the form of 'extreme geographies' to better understand living practices in a world that is increasingly submerged and extreme.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 27 February 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

This captivating book delves into the realm of geographical and geopolitical writing, pushing the boundaries of academic scholarship by exploring a series of lesser-known undersea living projects conducted by the United States Navy during the Cold War. Through an engaging and innovative empirical setting, the book revolves around central themes such as the practice and construction of territory, terrain, the elemental, and the intricate interrelationships between these material phenomena and both human and non-human bodies. Furthermore, it offers insightful perspectives on future research trajectories, advocating for the exploration of "extreme geographies" to gain a deeper understanding of living practices in a rapidly submerged and extreme world.

The book's exploration of these undersea living projects sheds light on the complex interplay between technology, environment, and human agency, highlighting the ways in which the Navy's experiments shaped not only the development of underwater exploration but also the broader geopolitical landscape of the Cold War era. By examining the social, cultural, and ecological implications of these projects, the book offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between humans and their environments, challenging traditional notions of territory, sovereignty, and the boundaries of the natural world.

Moreover, the book's focus on "extreme geographies" opens up new avenues for research and inquiry, as it encourages scholars to consider the ways in which living practices are shaped by the increasingly complex and unpredictable environments of the 21st century. From the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity to the opportunities for innovation and collaboration, extreme geographies offer a rich field for exploring the complex and interconnected relationships between humans and their surroundings.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of geographical and geopolitical writing, offering a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on the past, present, and future of human-environment interactions. By exploring the little-studied undersea living projects conducted by the US Navy during the Cold War, it sheds light on the complex interplay between technology, environment, and human agency, and provides valuable insights into the future of living practices in a world that is rapidly changing and uncertain.

Weight: 299g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538156988