Palgrave Critical Environmental Psychology: Power and Emancipation in the Polycrisis (Palgrave Studies in the Theory and History of Psychology)

This book offers a critical examination of psychology's role in addressing today's interconnected social-ecological crises. It argues that while psychological knowledge is crucial, the discipline often falls short by focusing too narrowly on individual behavior and neglecting broader systemic issues. Through critical perspectives on Environmental Psychology, the contributors illustrate the transformative potential of psychology in facing global challenges. They propose that psychology must evolve to address the complexities of our "polycrisis"―a convergence of ecological destruction, social injustice, and economic instability. The book emphasizes the historical roots of these crises in colonialism, capitalism, and systemic inequality, which psychology has often failed to address. Divided into four sections, the book begins by highlighting the necessary changes within psychology to tackle today's intertwined crises. It critiques the discipline's limitations and advocates for a reassessment of traditional approaches. The second section introduces decolonial and intercultural perspectives, urging the field to embrace diverse knowledge systems and confront power dynamics in research. The third section critically examines psychology's social role, encouraging it to challenge societal inequalities and environmental harm. The concluding chapters demonstrate theory in action, showcasing emancipatory projects that illustrate how psychology can support social and ecological justice in practice. By outlining practical implementations of critical environmental psychology, the book serves as a guide for how psychology can contribute meaningfully to creating a sustainable, equitable world. This collection is a must-read for researchers, scholars, and practitioners in the environmental, social, and behavioral sciences. It offers fresh insights and practical guidance for those seeking to understand how psychology can actively contribute to building a sustainable and just world.