Final answer:
The study of the effects of global economic changes on human-nature relationships is an interdisciplinary field involving analysis and concepts from anthropology, ecology, and economics, with a focus on sustainable practices and the understanding of cultural interdependence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The study of the effects of global economic changes on human-nature relationships is multifaceted and interdisciplinary, combining aspects of anthropology, ecology, and economics. This field examines how the global economy influences resource use and the profound transformations in ecological systems resulting from human actions such as deforestation, pollution, and urbanization. For instance, anthropologists might analyze the impact of the 'hamburger connection' on Amazonian deforestation, demonstrating the global economic influences on local ecosystems. In the context of urban planning, the role of human ecologists becomes critical as they strive to design landscapes that accommodate the demands of transportation while preserving natural beauty.
An emerging field known as Ecological Economics is particularly focused on the interaction between human activity and the environment. Pioneered by Herman Daly, Ecological Economics steps away from the traditional growth paradigm of neo-classical economics and seeks to establish a sustainable and indefinite relationship with our planet's resources. Scholars also use the term 'Anthropocene' to reflect the era of significant human impact on the earth's ecosystems. By studying large-scale environmental disruptions caused by human activities, academics hope to promote more sustainable living practices and understand the cultural interdependence of humans and the natural world.