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Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2011

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Book Brief

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Rob Nixon

Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

353

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor, Rob Nixon examines the disproportionate impact of gradual environmental destruction on vulnerable populations, revealing the hidden, long-term nature of this "slow violence" through the works of writer-activists like Abdelrahman Munif, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and Wangari Maathai, and emphasizing the role of literature in highlighting these injustices for a more equitable world. The book discusses themes of environmental harm, human rights violations, and economic disparities.

Informative

Challenging

Contemplative

Mysterious

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.5

722 ratings

87%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rob Nixon's Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor effectively highlights the intersection of environmental and social injustices, with compelling case studies. Critics praise its originality and narrative power, though some find it overly dense. A thought-provoking read, it brings crucial awareness to overlooked global issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor?

Ideal for readers passionate about environmental justice and activism, Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor by Rob Nixon appeals to those who appreciated Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring and Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things. It explores the intersection of environmental degradation and social inequity.

4.5

722 ratings

87%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Rob Nixon

An author and academic who explores themes of environmental and postcolonial studies in his work. He is inspired by three key figures who shape his approaches in combining literature and politics.

A pioneering American writer and marine biologist known for her influential book "Silent Spring" which raised awareness about the environmental impacts of pesticides. Her work contributed to environmental justice movements and shifted public perspectives on ecological issues.

An Indian sociologist and environmental historian who emphasizes global environmental justice and the unequal distribution of resources. His contributions include coining essential terms used in discussions about environmentalism of the poor.

A Palestinian-American scholar and public intellectual, known for his critical work "Orientalism" which examines Western perceptions of the Middle East. His ideas about broad literary styles and the critique of scholarly writing influence Nixon's approach.

Book Details
Pages

353

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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