Practical Idealism: An Oxymoron?

Abstract

abstractPrasad and Elmes (2005) provide an appealing critique of the ways in which current ‘green’ rhetoric may be used to deliver programmes which do little to protect the natural environment. The following paper will present evidence in support of their argument through reference to recent UK government proposals for the aviation industry. At the same time, it will be suggested that there are a variety of limitations withPrasad and Elmes’ (2005) thesis, including a failure to address critique of the constructionist treatment of nature, an inappropriate use ofAlvesson and Karreman's (2000) concept of mega-discourse, and a lack of attention to the tension between idealism and praxis.