Discover the profound insights in this compelling book, 'Vast Expanses', which offers a cultural, environmental, and geopolitical exploration of humanity's deep-seated relationship with the oceans. This engaging narrative unfolds over geological and evolutionary time, shedding light on how various cultures across the globe have interacted with the marine world. In a time of escalating climate change and ecological crisis, understanding these connections is more crucial than ever. Delve into the transformative journey of how industrialization and globalization have influenced our ancient ties to the sea, contrary to traditional Western views that often alienate humans from oceanic spaces. 'Vast Expanses' reveals how knowledge about the ocean—gained from exploration, economic endeavor, and scientific research—shapes our interactions with this immense and mysterious body of water. It addresses essential questions about the origin and purpose of oceanic knowledge, preparing us to create a more sustainable and respectful bond with the sea as we move forward. This 2018 publication by Reaktion Books is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the complexities of marine environments and their cultural significance. Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9781780239972.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781780239972
Year: 2018
Publisher: Reaktion Books


Description:


Vast Expanses is a cultural, environmental and geopolitical history that examines the relationship between humans and oceans, reaching back across geological and evolutionary time and exploring different cultures around the globe.

Our ancient connections with the sea have developed and multiplied with industrialization and globalization, a trajectory that runs counter to Western depictions of the ocean as a place remote from and immune to human influence. This book argues that knowledge about the ocean - created through work and play, scientific investigation, and also through the ambitions people have harboured for the sea - has played a central role in defining our relationship with this vast, trackless and opaque place. It has helped people exploit marine resources, control ocean space, extend imperial or national power, and attempt to refashion the sea into a more tractable arena for human activity.

Knowledge of the ocean has animated and strengthened connections between people and their seas. To understand this history we must address questions of how, by whom and why knowledge of the ocean was created and used, in both the past and the present; through this, we can forge a healthier relationship with the sea for the future.