Towards a Sociology of the Coast ― Our Past, Present and Future Relationship to the Shore

This book seeks to understand the coast as a place that has deep significance both historically and sociologically. Using several case studies in Australia, the author uses Max Weber’s approach to rationalisation to understand the different ways coasts have been interpreted throughout modern history. While today, coastal places are known for their aspects of lifestyle or adventure, their histories, underpinned by colonialism and industrialization, are vastly different. The author examines the delicate dichotomy between the alternative experiences the coast provides today, versus the ideals and values imposed upon it in times gone by. The author makes an ethical argument about the ways in which we use and experience the coast today will adversely affect the lives of future generations in an attempt to generate further discussion amongst students and scholars of the sociology of place, as well as coastal managers and stakeholders.

Nick Osbaldiston is Senior Lecturer in sociology at James Cook University, Australia. He is the author of Seeking Authenticity in Place, Culture and Self and the co-editor of Understanding Lifestyle Migration (with Michaela Benson). His research interests include migration, cultural sociology and climate change adaptation.