A Language Older Than Words
Derrick Jensen is regarded as the pre-eminent environmental activist writing in the USA today. This book, considered his seminal work, has gained international attention since its release in 2000, and is now published for the first time in Australia. In this powerful mix of memoir and environmental expose Derrick Jensen argues that the modern industrial economy abuses our environment, destroys meaningful work and disconnects us from the natural world. He masterfully contrasts this with his personal struggle to live in harmony with non-human life. Through his attempt to transcend the legacies of childhood abuse, he offers the most startling insights into how the pathology of violence (particularly from governments and corporations) permeates our cultures - and the impact this has on our health, relationships, communities and the myriad life-forms with whom we share our planet. Derrick Jensen writes: 'Our assaults on the natural world ... are unprecedented in their magnitude and ferocity. Why do we act as we do? What are sane and effective responses to outrageously destructive behaviour? ... My work and life revolve around these questions.'