Cultural Norms, War and the Environment

In light of the increased threat posed by military devastation and environmental exhaustion to humankind, SIPRI, in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Program, has compiled these papers to examine the linkage between the two threats. Written by specialists from several disciplines, the essays examine the ways in which cultural norms concerning the environment have inhibited the conduct of and preparation for war, and suggest how such norms can be strengthened. Issues addressed include the historical evolution of cultural norms on war and environment, the differing approaches of men and women, the challenge of the nuclear age, the roles of government and law, the influence of education and the mass media, and philosophical and aesthetic influences.