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University of California Press

About the Book

In the continuing debate of how to confront the challenges of climate change, individuals, advocacy groups, and political parties in the United States offer arguments and solutions based on economic and political viewpoints. But what if we are beginning from a distorted view?
 
In this book, F. Stephan Mayer argues that our psychological representation of the world is at the heart of the underlying causes of climate change. Mayer posits that we need to change the way we see the world if we are to effectively take a new course of action to address this threat.  Through an alternative worldview based on Aldo Leopold’s concept of land ethic, Mayer furthers the conversation by promoting a clearer vision of our relationship to nature and how it leads to a different path directed toward environmental sustainability. Based on over 20 years of psychological research examining the impact of the land ethic on pro-environmental behavior and personal well being, Mayer’s accessible tone invites readers to place their worldview within a broader framework, draw connections to their lives, and spark ideas of next steps that individuals and groups can take to transition to this alternative worldview and rectify this situation. 

About the Author

F. Stephan Mayer is Professor of Psychology and Peace Studies at Oberlin College.

Table of Contents

Foreword
Prologue

1. See Better: Psychology as a Foundational Science to Confront
Climate Change
2. The Fundamental Problem: The Psychology behind Climate
Change
3. The Emergency of Climate Change: Why Are We Failing to Take
Action?
4. The Great Transition: From Separateness to Interconnectedness
5. Actions Being Taken to Transition to the Land Ethic Worldview

References
Index

Reviews

“In an insightful book, F. Stephan Mayer effectively takes on the issue of environmental problems and global climate change from a unique land ethic worldview perspective.”—Gary Nickell, Professor of Psychology, Minnesota State University Moorhead

"Mayer’s contribution highlights how individuals can alter what they know (or what they think they know) about the environment and their relationship with it. Understanding more about our own perspective-taking and why we act (or do not act) in accordance with our attitudes and beliefs toward the climate crisis is both prudent and timely. Mayer invites us all to do this with a positive but balanced narrative."—Lindsay J. McCunn, Professor of Psychology, Vancouver Island University