Topophilia
'Topophilia' is a comprehensive, comparative look at 'all of the human being's affetive ties with the material environment.' Yi-Fu Tian believes that since humans are one of the 'dominant' factors controlling the environment, it is of great importance, when considering environmental issues, to take into account humankind's affinity toward the environment. Tuan approaches his subject from many angles. He looks at human regard for environment at the levels of the species, the group, and the individual. He considers how cultural differences affect attitudes and values -- from those of city dwellers to the ones of people inhabiting the wilderness -- and how these are reflected in art, literature, landscaping, in the dreams of an 'ideal world,' and in aspirations toward 'contementment and joy.'