Things Fall Apart?: The Political Ecology of Forest Governance in Southern Nigeria (Environmental Anthropology and Ethnobiology, 18)

"Things Fall Apart?: The Political Ecology of Forest Governance in Southern Nigeria" by Pauline von Hellermann offers a groundbreaking and critical re-evaluation of forest management in Nigeria's Edo State. This meticulously researched book, published by Berghahn Books, transcends the typical narratives of governance failure and corruption as the sole drivers of tropical deforestation. Von Hellermann delves deep into the historical and ethnographic context of forestry in the region, challenging the widely held belief that recent mismanagement is solely responsible for ecological degradation. Instead, she argues that the seeds of the present crisis were sown much earlier, embedded within the very foundations of scientific forest management itself. The book masterfully dissects how well-intentioned but ultimately flawed policies have contributed to the decline of timber stocks and the disruption of traditional ecological practices. Von Hellermann's work is not simply a critique; it's a call for a fundamental rethinking of what constitutes "good governance" in tropical forestry. Drawing on extensive fieldwork and historical analysis, "Things Fall Apart?" unveils the complex interplay between political power, economic interests, and ecological sustainability. The author sheds light on how local communities, often portrayed as agents of deforestation, in fact engage in practices that enhance biodiversity and forest cover. By challenging these preconceptions, the book offers a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the challenges facing Nigerian forests. Von Hellermanns perspective is vital for policymakers, environmental scientists, anthropologists, and anyone interested in the political ecology of resource management. This book is not only an academic investigation but a crucial contribution to the ongoing debate about sustainable development and environmental justice. The author questions the dominant narrative surrounding deforestation, urging readers to consider alternative perspectives and to re-examine the assumptions that underpin current approaches to forest governance. "Things Fall Apart?" is essential reading for understanding the complexities of environmental conservation in a rapidly changing world, especially in the context of post-colonial nations navigating development and environmental preservation. With 206 pages of insightful analysis, this hardcover edition is a valuable addition to any library, offering a fresh perspective on a critical global issue. Its exploration of the Edo State case study provides a rich and detailed understanding of broader challenges relating to natural resource management in the global South.