A Sense of Urgency: How the Climate Crisis Is Changing Rhetoric

Debra Hawhee's book A Sense of Urgency examines how the climate crisis is changing human communication and proposes four emerging answers to the challenge of representing planetary interests without privileging our own species. It invites us to imagine new ways of thinking with our imperiled planet.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

The climate crisis is profoundly altering the way humans communicate, according to renowned rhetorician Debra Hawhee. She contends that contemporary rhetoric is rooted in classical notions of humanity and history that fail to comprehend the current crisis. Hawhee poses the challenging question of how to discuss an unprecedented future or represent planetary interests without favoring our own species.

In her book, A Sense of Urgency, Hawhee explores four emerging responses to this dilemma. These responses, characterized by their novelty, serve as a testament to both the devastation caused by climate change and the potential for positive futures. Through the development of artistic practices such as magnitude, presence, witness, and feeling, A Sense of Urgency invites readers to imagine new ways of thinking about our planet that is facing unprecedented challenges.

One of the key insights offered by Hawhee is that traditional modes of communication, such as rational argument and scientific data, are insufficient to address the complex and urgent challenges of climate change. Instead, she advocates for a more holistic approach that incorporates emotional and embodied experiences. By tapping into our senses and emotions, we can develop a deeper connection to the natural world and inspire a sense of urgency and action.

Another important theme in A Sense of Urgency is the role of storytelling and narrative in shaping our understanding of the climate crisis. Hawhee argues that stories have the power to evoke empathy, inspire hope, and mobilize people towards action. By sharing personal stories and narratives that connect us to the impacts of climate change, we can create a sense of shared responsibility and collective action.

Furthermore, Hawhee explores the role of the arts in communicating about climate change. She argues that the arts can provide a powerful platform for expressing the urgency and complexity of the crisis, as well as for inspiring creativity and innovation. Through various artistic mediums, such as poetry, painting, music, and film, we can create a sense of awe and wonder about the natural world and inspire a sense of urgency and action.

In conclusion, A Sense of Urgency is a thought-provoking and timely book that offers valuable insights into the challenges of communicating about climate change. By challenging traditional notions of humanity and history, Hawhee advocates for a more holistic and emotional approach to understanding and addressing the crisis. Through the development of artistic practices and the use of storytelling and narrative, she encourages readers to imagine new ways of thinking with our imperiled planet and inspire a sense of urgency and action.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226826714