The greening of Marxism

Abstract

When the ecological movement emerged in the 1960s, it warned that continued consumerism and growth would lead to ecological catastrophe. The 'green' philosophy represented a challenge to the basic tenets of Marxism, which traditionally ignored issues of ecological sustainability. Tracing the history of the integration of ecological understanding with Marxist philosophy, this book explores the influence of green politics on Marxism, examines the new politics of emerging from these movements, and shows hwo red-green alliances can transform the political landscape. Notable contributions include the classic critique of political ecology by Hans Magnus Enzensberger, a debate of James O'Connor's notion of the second contraindication of capitalism, and critical essays from leading feminist thinkers such as Kate Soper and Mary Mellor. This book will be of interest to all readers interested in Marxism and in theories of the environment. It will serve as a text in courses in environmental studies, sociology, philosophy, geography, or political science.