Book Review

by Paul Ganderton

Baarschers Viii. 1996. Eco-facts and Ecofiction. Routledge. pp xiii + 264. ISBN 0 415 13201 2. £14.99.

This book is based on the simple premise that much of the language in use in environmental debate today is open to alternative perspectives. What we have here is a text that submits a good deal of what passes for wisdom to very strict analysis. In so doing, Baarschers covers a great deal of ground. He starts with an overview of the rise of environmental concern and the role of science and scientists. A chapter on chemistry introduces the factoid - a falsehood repeated often enough to become "truth". From there toxicity, cancer, energy, air, water, food waste and organochlormies come under the microscope. In each chapter there is abundant discussion of key ideas (often highlighted to aid clarity).

This is an excellent book not just for the clarity of writing but the way it attacks the sacred cows of modem environmental thought. I doubt it would appeal to students below the sixth form but teachers would find much stimulating material for debate and it should be required reading for undergraduates.