ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book argues that the term nature should not be looked on as a singular, static, discrete entity but should be seen as something that is defined, enacted and acted upon in a myriad of different ways. The book focuses on the history of exploitative relations between societies and natures. It explores four episodes in the history/prehistory of society—nature relations—the emergence of agriculture and industrialisation, imperialism and postindustrialism. The book demonstrates that people have produced a range of methods to manage agencies of nature. It highlights how environmental policies may flounder because of conflicts of interest. The book also argues that both the design and implementation of environmental policy making, and responses to it, need to be understood in social context. It also highlights how the exploitation of people is often conducted through notions of nature.
