Final answer:
Parenti identifies environmental consciousness, activism, and Cold War anxieties as key historical factors for the popularity of Limits, including the environmental impact of the Green Revolution and socialism's appeal during economic instability post-World War II.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Parenti, a prominent factor underlying the popularity of Limits is environmental consciousness and activism. This was a response to the environmental problems highlighted by scientists like Rachel Carson and heightened by the visible consequences of the Green Revolution with its complex impact on agricultural practices. Additionally, Cold War anxieties and resource concerns played a significant role, influencing countries around the world to consider the sustainability of their growth and the possibility of resource scarcity.
Historical factors such as the economic instability post-World War II and the rise of socialist ideologies also fed into the fears of resource depletion and environmental degradation, compelling a broader audience to embrace the narrative of Limits. These concerns were exacerbated by the political dynamics of the Cold War, where U.S. and Soviet competition extended to the control of resources in newly independent countries. As societies grappled with the ramifications of industrialization, reflections on resource usage, conservation, and long-term sustainability gained urgency.