This paper addresses the silence that surrounds nature within social science, the discipline of geography included. We begin by connecting the modernist project to the domination of nature, using the example of Scott's race to the South Pole. In addition, we show the way in which the externalization of nature is built into our concepts of science. In the third part of the paper, we begin to deal with the resuscitation of society-nature links. In particular, we examine those linkages within everyday life, where a place for nature is revealed to be most crucial. We explore this theme via the example of natural simulacra - notably parks, in both wilderness areas and cities. We argue that by comprehending nature, we reassert our power to reconstitute social nature, a power that is immanent in the practices of everyday life.
Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers is a leading international journal of major research papers. It is one of the most widely read and cited geographical journals. It publishes substantial articles of the highest scholarly standard on any theoretical or empirical subject in geography. Papers based upon original research, which draw attention to the wider implications of their findings, assessment of debates at the cutting edge of the discipline and contributions showing the methodological and interdisciplinary significance of geography for critical environmental and social understanding are especially welcome.
The Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers) is the Learned Society representing Geography and geographers. It was founded in 1830 for the advancement of geographical science and has been among the most active of the learned societies ever since. The largest geographical society in Europe, and one of the largest in the world, the RGS-IBG operates at a regional, national and international scale. The Society supports research, education and training, together with the wider public understanding and enjoyment of Geography. With its focus on society and environment, Geography is one of the most popular subjects in formal education and highly relevant to both life-long learning and fulfillment from travel.
This item is part of a JSTOR Collection.
For terms and use, please refer to our
Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers
© 1991 The Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers)