Climate Change and Political Theory

Climate change is an ethical failure that is causing floods, fires, droughts, and extreme weather, hurting the most vulnerable. This book argues that political theory is essential to address these challenges and that we must address questions of responsibility, collective duty, fairness, harm, techno-optimism, the value of nature, and the future of humanity to find acceptable routes out of the climate crisis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

Climate change is a profound ethical failure that is causing devastating consequences worldwide. The relentless floods, fires, droughts, and extreme weather events resulting from climate change are taking a heavy toll on human lives and destroying communities. These avoidable impacts disproportionately affect the most vulnerable members of society, leaving them in a state of crisis. It is alarming that we have failed to prevent climate change, despite the overwhelming evidence and urgency of the situation.

To address this pressing issue, we must mobilize at all levels, politically, socially, and economically. We must ask ourselves why we have failed to prevent climate change and what steps we can take to do better. The responsibility for action lies with all of us, but it is particularly urgent for those in positions of power and influence to take the lead.

In this book, Catriona McKinnon explores the critical contributions of engaged political theory to the urgent climate challenges that have remained unmet due to a lack of political will. McKinnon argues that these challenges cannot be addressed without delving into fundamental questions of responsibility, collective duty, fairness, harm, techno-optimism, the value of nature, and the future of humanity.

Through a philosophical analysis that is interwoven with the latest climate science, current politics, and policies, McKinnon demonstrates that we will not find viable solutions to the climate crisis without the guidance of political theory. Climate Change and Political Theory serves as a valuable resource for readers of all backgrounds and levels, providing a clear distillation of the political theory and ethics of climate change.

The book offers a curated guide to the key concepts and debates surrounding climate change, including the concept of responsibility, the duty of care, fairness, harm, techno-optimism, the value of nature, and the role of political institutions. McKinnon provides insights into the ethical frameworks and principles that can guide our response to climate change, and she offers practical examples of how political theory can be applied to address the challenges we face.

One of the key themes of the book is the need for collective action and the importance of building a sense of shared responsibility. McKinnon argues that climate change is not just an environmental problem but a social and political one that requires us to work together to find solutions. She highlights the role of political institutions, such as governments, corporations, and civil society, in shaping our response to climate change and in ensuring that the benefits of action are distributed fairly.

McKinnon also explores the ethical implications of different technologies and approaches to climate change mitigation and adaptation. She examines the trade-offs and risks associated with different technologies, such as renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, and nuclear power, and she advocates for a balanced and sustainable approach that considers the long-term impacts on both the environment and society.

In conclusion, Climate Change and Political Theory is a timely and essential book that provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the political theory and ethics of climate change. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding the urgent challenges we face and in working towards finding viable solutions. By delving into the fundamental questions of responsibility, collective duty, fairness, harm, techno-optimism, the value of nature, and the future of humanity, McKinnon offers a roadmap for building a more sustainable and just world.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 145 x 222 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509521654