Volatile Places

This insightful text offers a case study approach to understanding community and environmental conflicts, making Volatile Places an essential resource for students and educators alike.

This book serves as a comprehensive guide for both students and faculty, utilizing a case study approach to delve into the complexities of community and environmental controversies. Volatile Places explores the spirited public debates that arise when human communities intersect with their environments, making it a crucial resource for understanding these dynamics. The authors, Valerie Gunter and Steve Kroll-Smith, begin with a simple yet profound observation, leading readers through a series of provocative case studies that illuminate various local environmental conflicts.

In Volatile Places, Gunter shares her personal experiences during Hurricane Katrina, providing a unique narrative that enhances the understanding of environmental tragedies. Each case study is crafted to engage students, showcasing the dramatic stories behind local controversies. The text emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives and local knowledge in addressing environmental issues, encouraging critical thinking and informed decision-making.

The chapters are thoughtfully integrated, creating a cohesive framework for examining the multifaceted nature of community and environmental controversies. Additionally, the inclusion of portfolios, concept boxes, and theory discussions inspires students to participate in original research and action. This book is particularly suited for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in Environmental Sociology, as well as Social Problems courses that focus on environmental topics.