Cli-Fi and Class: Socioeconomic Justice in Contemporary American Climate Fiction

Climate fiction, or cli-fi, is a form of protest literature that focuses on economic injustice and popular revolt. It has been scrutinized for its focus on redressing social disparities, and the dual exploitations of the earth's ecosystems and the socioeconomically disadvantaged. Cli-Fi and Class explores the representation of class dynamics in climate-change narratives, addressing works ranging from novels to films and musicals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2023
Publisher: University of Virginia Press

Climate fiction, also known as cli-fi, has emerged as a genre that goes beyond mere environmental concerns and delves into the realm of social justice and popular uprising. It has a strong focus on addressing economic disparities and challenging the existing power structures. In fact, cli-fi can be considered a form of protest literature, as it relentlessly seeks to rectify social inequalities.

As environmental crises intensify and inequality worsens, literary writers and scholars have become increasingly interested in examining the dual exploitations of Earth's ecosystems and the socioeconomically disadvantaged. Cli-Fi and Class, a collection of fifteen essays, explores the intricate relationship between economic exploitation and the impact of climate change on planetary well-being. The essays cover a wide range of works, including novels, films, and Broadway musicals, and analyze how climatic change exacerbates existing inequalities and shapes new ones.

One of the key themes explored in the collection is the concept of "climate capitalism." According to the editors, climate capitalism refers to the economic system that commodifies and profits from climate change, while simultaneously disregarding the ecological and social costs. The essays analyze how this system perpetuates social injustice and inequality, particularly affecting marginalized communities and vulnerable populations.

Another important aspect of Cli-Fi and Class is the representation of class dynamics in climate-change narratives. The essays show how climatic change affects different social classes differently, with the wealthy and powerful often benefiting at the expense of the poor and marginalized. The collection highlights the ways in which climate change exacerbates existing power imbalances and creates new forms of oppression.

Furthermore, the essays explore the role of activism and resistance in combating climate change and addressing social inequality. The authors argue that climate fiction can serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness and promoting social change, as it allows for the exploration of complex social and environmental issues in a relatable and engaging way.

In conclusion, Cli-Fi and Class is a thought-provoking collection that sheds light on the intersection of economic exploitation, climate change, and social justice. It provides valuable insights into the ways in which these issues are interconnected and highlights the need for collective action and resistance to address them. By examining the complex relationships between these three domains, the collection contributes to the growing body of literature that seeks to promote a more equitable and sustainable future.

Weight: 428g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813950259