Legacy of the Environmental Movement

The study of a broad range of social movements has indicated the continued reoccurrence of a "life-cycle" phenomenon. The movement frequently evolves out of a feeling of frustration and discontent, grows rapidly to a point of institutionalization when its impact on the larger society is greatest, and then enters a period of decline. A review of the environmental social movement indicates that it may be following a similar path. The period of rapid growth and broad popular support has already passed. Nevertheless, it is argued that the movement's impact, and hence its legacy, is already a significant one. Changes in the areas of cultural values, individual life-styles, and legal and legislative actions are reviewed to demonstrate this point. It is also projected that significant changes will continue to occur, though with perhaps less fanfare than was true in the past.