Book Talk with Author Sarah Jaquette Ray:
The Ecological Other
Monday, February 24th, 2014
4:00PM-6:00PM
300 Wheeler Hall
Sponsored by:
The Department of Rhetoric
The Haas Institute for a Fair & Inclusive Society & its following research clusters:
Disability Studies
Diversity & Democracy
Diversity & Health Disparities
In this new book, Ray investigates three categories of ecological otherness: people with disabilities, immigrants, and Native Americans. Extending recent work in environmental justice ecocriticism, Ray argues that the expression of environmental disgust toward certain kinds of bodies draws problematic lines between ecological "subjects"—those who are good for and belong in nature—and ecological "others"—those who are threats to or out of place in nature. Ultimately, The Ecological Other urges us to be more critical of how we use nature as a tool of social control and to be careful about the ways in which we construct our arguments to ensure its protection. The book challenges long-standing assumptions in environmentalism and will be of interest to those in environmental literature and history, American studies, disability studies, and Native American studies, as well as anyone concerned with issues of environmental justice.
This event is wheelchair accessible. Accessible entrances to Wheeler Hall are at the southeast and northwest sides of the building. For accommodations requests and further information, please contact Susan Schweik at sschweik@berkeley.edu. or 510-292-0589. Please refrain from wearing scented products.
