Transformations of contemporary society and changes in the environment: a bibliographic review

Abstract

This work presents a theoretical discussion arising from a literature review that aimed to highlight the point of view of several authors who approached the relationship between society and nature and the ways that human actions alter the natural environment. Portraying a chronology from the dawn of civilization to contemporary times, about the impacts that civilization has had on the environment, and the consequences generated by these actions. Quantitative and qualitative bibliographic researches were carried out involving the theme, with the reading of relevant references to the subject, including books, periodicals and scientific articles. It was a consensus among the authors that the current model of civilization represents the main factor of environmental degradation today and its frantic search to satisfy the wishes of a capitalist society. However, it leads us to reflect on the importance of individual actions, which may mitigate the consumer cycle and the importance of investing in environmental education as an effective way of changing habits, aiming at a more sustainable and harmonious society with the environment.