Stoddart 1
Abstract
One of the theoretical landmarks of environmental sociology is Dunlap and Catton’s distinction
between the “Human Exceptionalist Paradigm” and the “New Environmental Paradigm.” The
HEP describes cultural values that emphasize the separation of society from nature. This
perspective has dominated classical and contemporary sociology, leading sociologists to study
human social action as though environmental factors were irrelevant. Instead, the NEP emphasizes
that social action occurs within ecosystem processes and limits. The implication is that
environmental variables become significant for sociological analysis. Dunlap and Catton claim that
environmental sociology is defined by its willingness to embrace the NEP. Furthermore, the
attempt to incorporate nature as a significant presence has been taken up by many sociologists.
However, the claim that the HEP has limited consideration of the environment within the
sociological tradition is problematic. Furthermore, their assertion that environmental sociologists
should adopt an NEP standpoint has not materialized. “Exceptionalist” environmental sociologies
abound within the subdiscipline. In this context, the HEP-NEP distinction may be read as a
discursive device that works to “police the boundaries” of the subdiscipline. It may limit our
appreciation of the richness of work that adopts a more “social” conception of the environment.
Through an examination of the “Exceptionalist” work of the classical tradition and environmental
constructionism, I will argue that a broader conception of “environmental sociology” is more useful,
especially as a model for how nature may achieve a greater presence within the sociological
“mainstream.”
Introduction
One of the early theoretical landmarks of environmental sociology is Dunlap and Catton’s
distinction between the “Human Exceptionalist Paradigm” and the “New Environmental Paradigm”
(Dunlap and Catton 1979). The authors argue that North American society is characterized by a
fundamental anthropocentrism that describes humanity as separate from nature and independent of
its influences and constraints. Cultural norms and values emphasize that humanity can take as much
as it needs from nature, as any problems can be addressed through technological innovation and
advancement. They term this perspective the “Human Exceptionalist Paradigm” and argue that it
Convention