Assessing the influence of radical ecology concepts

Abstract

This study examined the extent of influence of selected radical ecology concepts, specifically those related to the Deep Ecology Movement. Since much of the work related to Deep Ecology is theoretical in nature, this study was intended to serve as a first attempt to shed some light on the influence of these theoretical concepts in practice, keeping in mind that these are seen by some of their advocates as catalysts that will enable the social transformation which will help human societies live within environmental limits. Primary data collection was conducted through the use of Q methodology and additional interviews, to assess the extent to which concepts from Deep Ecology find resonance with different stakeholder groups. Survey results indicated that respondents subscribe to a range of different discourses, which have varying levels of compatibility with the Deep Ecology platform. The results obtained also show that although there is evident interest and concern with regard to environmental issues, there is also a gap between concern and action, indicating that whilst there may be acceptance of concepts from Deep Ecology, the commitment to action which this movement calls for may yet be lacking, at least amongst some. The results also point towards issues of mismatches in scale, between the scale of environmental issues the world is currently facing and the scale of actions being taken. Notwithstanding, the study shows that there may be points of convergence across different discourses, which may contribute towards achieving a 'critical mass' which will push forward the necessary changes required to help human societies live within environmental limits.