Political Economy of the Environment

Economic activities that degrade the environment do not simply pit humans against nature. They also pit some humans against others. Some people benefit from these activities; others bear net costs of pollution and resource depletion. In a provocative and original analysis, Professor Boyce examines the dynamics of environmental degradation in terms of the balances of power between the winners and the losers. The author provides evidence that inequalities of power and wealth affect not only the distribution of environmental costs, but also their overall magnitude: greater inequalities result in more environmental degradation. Democratization - movement toward a more equitable distribution of power - is therefore not only a worthwhile objective in its own right, but also an important means toward the social goals of environmental protection and sustainable development. The essays presented in this book deal with both theoretical issues and empirical evidence, and draw on experiences in many parts of the world. They suggest alternative ways of environmental protection and offer the policy implications of these alternatives. Boyce argues for a more equal distribution of power which will provide a powerful impetus to environmental protection and vice versa. This book should appeal to readers interested in environmental issues, economics and public policy. Students, scholars and policymakers should all find the analyses and prescriptions enlightening.