DEFOLIATION : WHAT ARE OUR HERBICIDES DOING TO US? - Thomas Whiteside

"Defoliation: What Are Our Herbicides Doing to Us?" by Thomas Whiteside explores the impact of herbicides on the environment, human health, and agriculture. This book examines the widespread use of herbicides, focusing on their harmful effects and the consequences of defoliation practices in various contexts, such as agriculture and warfare.

Whiteside investigates the chemical properties of different herbicides, their application in agriculture, and their role in deforestation and environmental damage. The book delves into the health risks associated with herbicide exposure, discussing the potential for toxicity, long-term health effects, and their impact on ecosystems and wildlife.

An important aspect of the book is its critical examination of the use of herbicides in warfare, particularly during the Vietnam War. It addresses the defoliation campaigns, such as the use of Agent Orange, and the resulting damage to the environment and human populations.

Overall, the book is a comprehensive analysis of herbicides' broader implications, questioning the long-term sustainability of practices that rely heavily on chemical defoliation.