The goal of ecologism can only be achieved through radical social change' discuss Jan 2011 Q7 45mark

The goal of ecologism can only be achieved through radical social change' discuss Jan 2011 Q7 45mark

1. Strands of ecology in support of radical social change

   • Eco-socialists
     • They believe that the root cause of environmental degradation is the capitalist system and that only its overthrow and replacement by socialism can reorder the relationship between humankind and nature. humankind must adopt a simpler, more natural way of living and producing replacing of international political organisations with community-based social structures
   • Eco- anarchists
     • Anarcho-environmentalists oppose the state and international corporations such as WTO & IMF as they destroy the environment through restructuring economies to ensure a boost in earning.(capitalism). anarcho- environmentalist suggest that only within a stateless society, with small communes, can nature be properly protected.
   • Eco-feminists
     • eco-feminists propose that capitalism is patriarchal in nature, and it inevitably lead to the over-exploitation of the natural world. Therefore, men are responsible for environmental problems. Eco feminists believe the destruction of both capitalism and patriarchy are essential if the environment is to be protected and the relationship between earth and humans is to be fundamentally changed

2. Strands rejecting radical social change

   • Liberal environmentalism
     • Do not propose revolutionary change and which believe that their objectives can largely be achieved within existing social and economic structure. for example, the Green Party urges humankind to adopt a new mode of living and looks forward to a more localised and direct form of democracy, but it suggests nothing that would shake the existing social and political structures
   • shallow egology
     • Believe that ecological concerns can be met through gradual reforms, which are compatible with economic growth and the maintenance of the capitalist system
   • Right -Wing ecology