Climate Change and the Symbol Deficit in the Christian Tradition: Expanding Gendered Sources

This book explores how the climate crisis reveals the symbol deficit in the Christian tradition and argues that Christianity has the potential to develop symbols that can engage people in committed and sustained action to prevent further crisis. Henriksen suggests that symbols should engage both intellectually and emotionally, enhance our perception of belonging, provide concrete guidance of agency, and open up to visions for a moral agency that provide positive motivations for caring about environmental conditions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The climate crisis serves as a stark reminder of the profound symbol deficit within the Christian tradition. While Christianity possesses a wealth of symbols that identify and address the shortcomings of humans and the barriers that hinder their success, the development of positive symbols that inspire constructive action remains underdeveloped. In his book, "The Symbol Deficit in the Christian Tradition and the Climate Crisis," author Henriksen explores the potential of the Christian tradition to cultivate symbols that can engage individuals in committed and sustained efforts to prevent further crises.

Henriksen argues that for symbols to effectively address the climate crisis, they must engage both the intellect and the emotions, fostering a sense of belonging in relationships with others, both in the present and in the future. He suggests that the deficit can only be overcome by developing symbols that have a foundation or resonance within the Christian tradition, offer concrete and specific guidance on agency, appeal to people on an emotional and intellectual level, and embrace visions for a moral agency that provide positive motivations for caring about environmental conditions.

One key aspect of Henriksen's argument is the importance of symbols that transcend mere representation or abstraction. Instead, he advocates for symbols that evoke a deep sense of meaning and purpose, connecting individuals to something larger than themselves. For example, he suggests that the cross, a symbol of Christianity's central message of love and sacrifice, can be reimagined as a symbol of collective responsibility and action towards climate change. By associating the cross with the urgent need to address the climate crisis, Christians can be motivated to take concrete steps to reduce their carbon footprint and support policies that promote sustainability.

Furthermore, Henriksen emphasizes the need for symbols that provide concrete and specified guidance on agency. He argues that the climate crisis requires a collective effort, and individuals must be empowered to take action in their own lives. Symbols that offer clear directives on how to engage in sustainable practices and support environmental causes can help individuals feel more empowered and motivated to make a difference.

In addition to engaging the intellect and the emotions, Henriksen suggests that symbols must also appeal to people on an emotional level. The climate crisis often elicits feelings of fear, anxiety, and hopelessness, and symbols that provide a sense of comfort, reassurance, and inspiration can help individuals cope with these emotions and remain committed to the cause of climate action. For example, the image of a thriving ecosystem or a community working together to address climate change can evoke a sense of hope and possibility, inspiring individuals to take action.

Finally, Henriksen argues that symbols must embrace visions for a moral agency that provides positive motivations for caring about environmental conditions as a whole. The climate crisis is not just a scientific or environmental issue, but also a moral one. Symbols that promote a sense of moral responsibility and a commitment to justice can help individuals see the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of taking action to protect the planet. For example, the concept of intergenerational justice, which emphasizes the responsibility of current generations to protect the planet for future generations, can inspire individuals to take action in their own lives and support policies that promote sustainability.

In conclusion, the climate crisis serves as a powerful reminder of the profound symbol deficit within the Christian tradition. By cultivating symbols that engage both the intellect, the emotions, and the intellect, and provide concrete and specified guidance on agency, appeal to people on an emotional and intellectual level, and embrace visions for a moral agency that provides positive motivations for caring about environmental conditions, the Christian tradition can play a vital role in addressing the climate crisis and creating a more sustainable and just world.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 213 x 325 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567704962