This thesis explores the theory of ecological imperialism. The term eco-imperialism refers to a postcolonialist critique of environmentalist initiatives, as they are argued to portray imperialist...Show moreThis thesis explores the theory of ecological imperialism. The term eco-imperialism refers to a postcolonialist critique of environmentalist initiatives, as they are argued to portray imperialist characteristics. It claims that ideas from the Global North are imposed on the Global South, reinforcing their political and economic dominance. This thesis aims to test this theory on the case of the fires in the Brazilian Amazonian rainforest. Deforestation can be portrayed as a devasting process internationally, but at the same time, as progress and economic development locally. This discrepancy between local and international perspectives possibly portrays imperialist patterns. A critical discourse analysis is performed on international governmental and non-governmental sources covering these fires. This analysis aims to find proof of imperialist rhetoric. In addition, the Brazilian reaction to such discourse will be analyzed to strengthen this argument and find possible implications of current environmentalist discourse and counter-productive effects. The analysis finds numerous instances of discourse that point toward imperialist power relations in both governmental and non-governmental sources. However, especially NGOs repeatedly described the Amazon as being theirs and excluded local perspectives. With increasing international environmental attention and cooperation, it is important to ensure that initiatives are not counterproductive, and that equal agency is provided globally in order to guard itself from past mistakes in international interventions.Show less
