Methodologies and Theories

Environmental social science draws on various disciplines to understand the relationship between human behavior and the environment

Environmental Studies and Human Ecology

Social Structures and Power Dynamics

Environmental social science intersects with environmental studies and human ecology to examine how social structures and power dynamics influence environmental issues

Impact of Human Actions and Societal Institutions

The primary goal of environmental social science is to analyze and interpret the ways in which human actions and societal institutions impact and are impacted by the natural world

Power Relations and Resource Distribution

Political ecology challenges the view of the environment as neutral territory and highlights how power relations affect resource distribution

Environmental Justice and Marginalized Communities

Environmental justice advocates for fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, in addressing the unequal distribution of environmental risks and benefits

Critical Approach and Systemic Forces

Scholars like Paul Robbins advocate for a critical approach in political ecology that considers systemic forces and power imbalances

Influence on Human and Ecological Systems

The study of human-environmental interactions in environmental social science explores how these relationships influence both human and ecological systems

Connection between Cultural Practices and Ecological Contexts

The concept of ecocultural identity recognizes the deep connection between cultural practices and ecological contexts in shaping identities

Environmental Ethics and Moral Implications

Environmental ethics raises questions about the intrinsic value of nature and the ethical implications of human interactions with the environment, including the treatment of non-human entities

Social Determinants of Health

Social epidemiology studies how social structures and economic status affect health outcomes, particularly through the social determinants of health

Collaboration with Environmental Social Scientists

Environmental social scientists collaborate with social epidemiologists to explore the environmental factors that influence health and support the development of policies aimed at improving health equity

Integrated Approach for Global Well-being

The integrated approach of combining health and environmental assessments is essential for addressing health disparities and promoting global well-being, as recognized by organizations like the World Health Organization