Routledge Religion and Sustainability: Social Movements and the Politics of the Environment

Sustainability is now key to international and national policy, manufacture and consumption. It is also central to many individuals who try to lead environmentally ethical lives. Historically, religion has been a significant part of many visions of sustainability. Pragmatically, the inclusion of religious values in conservation and development efforts has facilitated relationships between people with different value structures. Despite this, little attention has been paid to the interdependence of sustainability and religion, and no significant comparisons of religious and secular sustainability advocacy. Religion and Sustainability presents the first broad analysis of the spiritual dimensions of sustainability-oriented social movements. Exploring the similarities and differences between the conceptions of sustainability held by religious, interfaith and secular organizations, the book analyses how religious practice and discourse have impacted on political ideology and process. Review 'The novel approach employed in Religion and Sustainability captures the fascinating social movements emerging from the intersection of global environmental issues and moral traditions.' --Evan Berry, American University, Washington DC 'In this sophisticated and well-written study, Johnston offers a much-needed and thought-provoking 'missing link' emphasizing the religious dimensions of contemporary sustainability movements.' --Laura Hobgood-Oster, Southwestern University, USA About the Author Lucas F. Johnston is Assistant Professor of Religion and Environmental Studies at Wake Forest University, North Carolina, USA.