COMMUNITY, EMPOWERMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
by Blewitt, John (ed.)

First in the Converging World Series from the Schumacher Institute


This book explores a compelling range of community-based activities from different cultures and nations which help nurture intercultural understanding and practices of sustainable development. The specially commissioned chapters from practitioners and academics offer a set of interconnected case studies, personal stories, philosophical discussions and critical reflections on direct experiences focussing on co-operative action, creative media innovation and community empowerment connecting individuals, groups, organisations from across our converging world. At the book’s core is a central belief that ecological sustainability can only be attained through social learning, community empowerment, participation and a commitment to global justice. It is the first in a series of books addressing issues emerging from the Schumacher Institute’s Converging World Initiative.

The Editor: Dr. John Blewitt has extensive experience in adult, further and higher education, sustainable community development, local government, consultancy and project management. He established and co-directs the highly successful MSc in Sustainable Development at Exeter which focuses on developing the knowledge, skills and capabilities professionals require to help create sustainable modes of living and working. His research, teaching and development interests encompass sustainable communities and everyday life, media ecology and the development of a new visually-based language for sustainability.

Contributors: John Blewitt (University of Exeter), Ian Roderick/Nicola Jones (Schumacher Institute), Dr. S. Cletus Babu, SCAD Tamil Nadu, David Selby (University of Plymouth), Mr. G. Nagarajan, SCAD, Ros Wade et al (London South Bank University), Lucy Thompson (MSc student University of Exeter), Donna Ladkin (Cranfield University), Siobhan Riordan MA (University of East London/University of Exeter), Kaz Janowski, BBC World Service & Monica Janowski, University of Sussex.