Book Discussion: The Invention of Nature OR Tinicum and Eastwick (hybrid)

Join the discussion for one or both books!

Two books will be discussed: 10 am The Invention of Nature and 10:45 am Tinicum and Eastwick.

The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt’s New World by Andrea Wulf (starts at 10 am)

This is a biography of Alexander von Humboldt, the visionary German naturalist whose ideas changed the way we see the natural world–and in the process created modern environmentalism. Humboldt (1769-1859) was the most famous scientist of his age, whose discoveries forever changed the way we understand the natural world. Among his most revolutionary ideas was a radical conception of nature as a complex and interconnected global force that does not exist for the use of humankind alone. In this illuminating biography, Andrea Wulf brings Humboldt’s extraordinary life back into focus: his prediction of human-induced climate change; his daring expeditions to the highest peaks of South America and to the anthrax-infected steppes of Siberia; his relationships with iconic figures, including Simón Bolívar and Thomas Jefferson; and the lasting influence of his writings on Darwin, Wordsworth, Goethe, Muir, Thoreau, and many others. Brilliantly researched and stunningly written, The Invention of Nature reveals the myriad ways in which Humboldt’s ideas form the foundation of modern environmentalism–and reminds us why they are as prescient and vital as ever. — Better World Books

Tinicum and Eastwick: Environmental Justice and Racial Injustice in Southwest Philadelphia by Will Caverly (starts at 10:45 am)

When plans to overhaul Southwest Philadelphia in the 1950s scheduled both the integrated neighborhood of Eastwick and the ecologically valuable Tinicum marshes to be razed, two grassroots movements took up the cause—battling eminent domain in the name of environmental conservation and economic injustice.

Two grassroots movements began a resistance that spanned decades—battling eminent domain in the name of environmental conservation and economic injustice. The Eastwick neighborhood’s resistance to the project was racially diverse and working class in nature. Led by housewives, they went toe to toe with a government bureaucracy. As Eastwick rallied to defend itself, a parallel grassroots effort by bird watchers desperately worked to save the embattled Tinicum marshes. These unspoiled remains of Pennsylvania’s last freshwater tidal marsh were home to hundreds of threatened species of wildlife.

Amid protest marches and bomb threats, political intrigue and outrage, a question emerged that would forever influence the region. Who deserves a home: wildlife or human beings? Author Will Caverly confronts the intersection of eminent domain and environment, told through the struggles everyday residents of Southeastern Pennsylvania endured to pursue justice. — Brookline Books

Pay as you wish. Contributions support the mission of CCHC and are greatly appreciated.

The Zoom link will be sent several days in advance of the discussion. This discussion will not be recorded.