Crimes Against Nature

Crimes Against Nature examines the environmental policies and corporate relationships during George W. Bush's presidency. Kennedy draws from his experience as an environmental lawyer to document decisions made by the Bush administration regarding natural resources, pollution standards, and industry regulation. The book presents research on three major sectors: fossil fuels, beef production, and lumber. Through investigation of regulatory changes and corporate lobbying efforts, Kennedy traces connections between industry interests and government policy shifts during the early 2000s. Kennedy analyzes specific administrative appointments, policy reversals, and legislative actions that impacted environmental protection. The narrative includes case studies of mercury and arsenic contamination, carbon dioxide emissions, and changes to public land use policies. This work contributes to ongoing discussions about the relationship between government, industry, and environmental stewardship in American politics. The text raises questions about corporate influence in democracy and the long-term consequences of environmental policy decisions.

Readers value Kennedy's insider perspective and detailed documentation of environmental policy changes during the George W. Bush administration. Many cite the comprehensive footnotes and research as key strengths. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear explanation of complex regulatory changes - Specific examples of industry influence on policy - Well-organized presentation of data and evidence Critical reviews note: - Strong partisan tone that some find off-putting - Dated examples (focused on 2000-2004 period) - Dense technical and legal details that can be difficult to follow Review Scores: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (500+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (150+ ratings) "The documentation is impressive and the case he builds is strong," notes one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads critic counters that "the angry tone undermines otherwise solid research." Several readers mention the book works better as a historical record than a current environmental policy guide, given its 2004 publication date.

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🌎 The book emerged from Kennedy's work as chief prosecuting attorney for Riverkeeper, an environmental watchdog organization that protects the Hudson River watershed. 🏛️ During the period covered in the book (2000-2004), over 200 major environmental laws were altered or weakened, representing one of the most significant shifts in U.S. environmental policy history. 🔍 Kennedy spent three years investigating and conducting over 100 interviews with government officials, scientists, and industry insiders to compile the material for this book. 💼 The author comes from a notable political family but chose to focus his career on environmental law, serving as a Clinical Professor of Environmental Law at Pace University School of Law. 🌿 The book's release in 2004 coincided with growing public awareness of climate change issues, helping to spark renewed interest in environmental protection and corporate accountability.