Speaking with Nature, The Origins of Indian Environmentalism

Ramachandra Guha's "Speaking with Nature" explores the prehistory of Indian environmentalism, challenging the notion that developing nations prioritize development over ecological concerns.

The book highlights ten significant historical figures who articulated sophisticated ecological critiques before Western environmental movements.

Guha examines primary sources to demonstrate how these figures developed their environmentalism within Indian contexts, addressing issues like forest conservation and industrialization.

The book introduces the concept of "livelihood environmentalism," contrasting it with the "full-stomach environmentalism" of affluent societies.

It contributes to our understanding of how environmental consciousness manifests in different socioeconomic contexts.