Rethinking Environmental Sociology

This unique and innovative book explores the sociology of environmental morality. John Hannigan presents a unique framework by which we can understand the ongoing moralisation of environmental issues, re-interpreting the development of environmental sociology as a transition from moral learning to moral outrage. Responding to the challenges raised by Michael Bell (2020), Justin Farrell (2015), and Paul Stock (2020) to develop a sociology of environmental morality, Hannigan investigates how our understanding of environmental conflicts, issues and movements may be enriched by unearthing their underlying moral foundations. Chapters assess the cultural construction of moral narratives and the theory of moral economies, pairing this with case studies on gardens and gardening, the deep ocean, palm oil plantations, and lithium mining in the Andean highlands. Ultimately, the book argues for a revitalised environmental sociology constructed upon three central pillars: rigorous scientific grounding, deep moral commitment, and a theoretical orientation that integrates nature and society. Rethinking Environmental Sociology is a key resource for students and academics working in environmental sociology, environmental history, political ecology and development studies. Hannigans proposed framework is also of interest to policymakers and practitioners specialising in climate change and development.