Earthbound: the Aesthetics of Sovereignty in the Anthropocene

The Anthropocene thesis states that human impact on the environment has tipped the earth system into a new state, requiring sensitivity to the forces that traverse human and nonhuman life. Daniel Matthews' book explores how sovereignty depends on a distinctive aesthetics that orders the world in a way that keeps climate change and ecological destruction off stage. He outlines the significance of this aesthetic organization of power and explores how it can be transformed to address the challenges of the Anthropocene, setting the grounds for a new, ecologically attuned, critical jurisprudence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

The Anthropocene thesis posits that human activities have exerted such a profound influence on the environment that the Earth's systems have entered a distinct new state. This transformative geological epoch necessitates a heightened awareness of the interconnections between human and nonhuman life, encompassing geological, ecological, and atmospheric aspects. In his book, Daniel Matthews delves into the concept of sovereignty, which serves as the fundamental organizing principle of modern law and politics. He argues that sovereignty relies on a distinctive aesthetic that shapes our perception, emotions, and understanding of the world, effectively obscuring the realities of climate change and ecological destruction.

Through a comprehensive analysis of various legal, literary, ecological, and philosophical texts, Matthews highlights the significance of this aesthetic organization of power and explores the potential for transformation. By doing so, he aims to address the numerous challenges posed by the Anthropocene, laying the groundwork for a new, ecologically sensitive, and critical jurisprudence.

The book begins by examining the historical roots of sovereignty and its relationship to power. Matthews argues that sovereignty has traditionally been understood as a form of territorial control, with the state claiming authority over its territory and its inhabitants. However, he suggests that this understanding is limited and insufficient in the face of the Anthropocene's challenges.

Matthews then turns to explore the role of aesthetics in shaping sovereignty. He argues that the aesthetic organization of power creates a sense of order and stability that reinforces the dominant narratives and ideologies. This aesthetic order, in turn, obscures the underlying realities of environmental degradation and social injustice.

To address these challenges, Matthews proposes a transformative approach to sovereignty. He advocates for a shift towards a more ecological and relational understanding of power. This would involve recognizing the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of maintaining a harmonious balance with the natural world.

Matthews also suggests that the aesthetic organization of power can be transformed through a range of legal, political, and cultural interventions. He advocates for the creation of new legal frameworks that prioritize the protection of the environment and the rights of marginalized communities. He also calls for a shift in political discourse towards a more inclusive and sustainable vision of society.

In conclusion, The Aesthetics of Sovereignty offers a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between power, aesthetics, and the environment. By challenging the traditional understanding of sovereignty and advocating for a more ecological and relational approach, Matthews provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the Anthropocene and the urgent need for transformative action.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 161 x 239 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474455305