Frontiers: Histories of Civil Society and Nature (The MIT Press)

Embark on a captivating journey through contested landscapes with Michael R. Redclift's "Frontiers: Histories of Civil Society and Nature," a seminal work exploring the intricate relationship between human societies and the natural world in frontier regions. This illustrated paperback edition, published by The MIT Press in 2006, delves into the dynamic interplay between environment, civil society, and market forces, offering profound insights relevant to contemporary global challenges. Redclift, a renowned scholar in environmental sociology and human geography, masterfully weaves together five compelling case studies drawn from his extensive fieldwork and archival research. He examines how civil societies emerge in frontier areas, often grappling with competing visions for the definition and management of nature itself. This book isn't just an academic study; it's a vibrant exploration of human resilience and adaptation in the face of environmental change and economic pressures. Delve into the heart of resource management in the Spanish Pyrenees, where traditional common-pool systems clash with modern demands. Journey to nineteenth-century Canada to witness the impact of European settlement on the vast forest frontier. Confront conflicts over scarce land and water resources in coastal Ecuador, where local communities struggle to protect their livelihoods. Experience the Mayan civil unrest in the Yucatn peninsula, a powerful testament to cultural identity and resistance. Finally, grapple with the challenges of tourism encroachment on the idyllic Mexican Caribbean coast, where economic development threatens ecological balance. "Frontiers" goes beyond a simple recounting of historical events. Redclift unveils a dialectical process, a constant and evolving interaction between human societies and their environments. He positions the frontier as a "crucible," a space where both nature and civil institutions are forged and transformed. The book highlights how migration and land settlement gave rise to ideologies of nature, deeply influenced by the social, ethnic, and economic contexts of the settlers. Crucially, Redclift emphasizes the transformative power of global markets on the natural environment, and the subsequent resistance that sparks new forms of political activity and cultural expression. What sets "Frontiers" apart is its nuanced understanding of the frontier concept. Redclift moves beyond simplistic notions of geographical boundaries to explore the complex social, political, and ecological dimensions that define these contested zones. He argues that the frontier, far from being a relic of the past, remains a critical lens through which to understand contemporary global challenges, including resource scarcity, environmental degradation, and social inequality. The book's relevance is underscored by Redclift's ability to connect historical patterns to present-day realities, making it essential reading for anyone interested in human geography, environmental studies, sociology, and development studies. Weighing 363 grams and spanning 248 pages, this thought-provoking book will challenge your preconceptions and deepen your understanding of the intricate relationship between civil society and the environment. With ISBN-13: 9780262681605 and ISBN-10: 0262681609, "Frontiers" is an indispensable addition to your library.