" L'idée de ce livre m'est venue à l'époque où, jeune auto-stoppeur, je traversais l'Afrique à bord de camions commerciaux et de Land Rover bondées. Je me sentais aussi minuscule qu'un insecte rampant sur une plaine érodée. J'avais l'impression qu'il me manquait une vue d'ensemble, et je me demandais à quoi ressemblerait ce paysage vu du ciel, quels motifs en émergeraient, quels horizons il révélerait. C'est au cours de ce voyage que j'ai décidé de consacrer ma vie à la photographie. Il m'a fallu vingt ans pour que mon rêve de jeunesse soit enfin à ma portée, à bord d'un parachute motorisé... " George Steinmetz.
"The Human Planet" is a stunning visual journey that captures our changing Earth, highlighting climate change, sustainable agriculture, and humanity's impact. Photographer George Steinmetz showcases both untouched nature and human endeavors, complemented by insightful text from science writer Andrew Revkin.
The book presents a groundbreaking analysis of modern French sociology, linking its evolution to the context of the French empire post-World War II. Steinmetz argues that colonial research was fundamental to sociology's resurgence, as sociologists collaborated with colonial governments to address pressing social issues. He examines the contributions of key figures like Aron, Berque, Balandier, and Bourdieu, highlighting how their work was influenced by colonial dynamics. The author employs a novel methodological approach, integrating contextual analysis with close readings of sociological texts.
Why does the welfare state develop unevenly across countries and regions? What accounts for the exclusions and disciplinary aspects of social programs? George Steinmetz examines these questions by investigating the origins and evolution of social policies in nineteenth-century Germany, often seen as the birthplace of the modern welfare state. Before 1914, Germany implemented various social programs, including national social insurance legislation, the "Elberfeld" system of poor relief, protocorporatist policies, and modern social work. This context allows for a comparative analysis of different programs at local and national levels. Steinmetz analyzes changes in welfare policy throughout the century, differences in state and municipal interventions, and intercity policy variations. He emphasizes the constraints faced by policymakers and the diverse interpretations of the "social question." While some pre-1914 welfare state elements reinforced social divisions and hinted at future Nazi policies, others effectively addressed issues like sickness, poverty, and unemployment. Steinmetz explores the conditions that fostered both positive and negative aspects of social policy, drawing on statist, Marxist, and social democratic perspectives, as well as theories of gender and culture.
Through stunning aerial photography, George Steinmetz reveals the intricate and expansive nature of global food systems, showcasing the impact of agriculture on 40 percent of the Earth's land. His decade-long journey spans over 30 countries and 24 US states, documenting the production of staples like wheat and rice, as well as fruits, vegetables, fishing, and meat. The book contrasts traditional farming practices with large-scale agribusiness, offering a comprehensive view of how food is cultivated around the world.
Experience New York City through the lens of a master aerial photographer. This book captures stunning views of the city, showcasing its iconic skyline and vibrant neighborhoods from a unique perspective. A visual journey that highlights the beauty and complexity of urban life.
George Steinmetz, Geophysiker und vielfach ausgezeichneter Fotograf, durchquerte einst während seines Studiums die Sahara. Seither lässt ihn die Wüste nicht mehr los. 25 Jahre überflog er mit seinem motorisierten Paraglider die extremsten Orte der Erde, um diese für 'Wüsten von oben' zu dokumentieren. In den begleitenden Texten beschreibt er nicht nur die Landschaften, sondern auch die Abenteuer, die er während seiner Aufnahmen erlebte.
Der Einfluss moderner kolonialer Imperien auf die Sozialwissenschaften wird eingehend untersucht und beleuchtet, wie diese Prägungen die postmoderne Soziologie formen. Das Buch analysiert die Wechselwirkungen zwischen kolonialen Strukturen und sozialen Theorien, und stellt zentrale Fragen zur Relevanz und Entwicklung sozialwissenschaftlicher Ansätze in einem von Kolonialismus geprägten Kontext. Es bietet eine kritische Reflexion über die Herausforderungen und Perspektiven, die sich aus dieser historischen Prägung ergeben.
