Eco-Anxiety and Planetary Hope: Experiencing the Twin Disasters of COVID-19 and Climate Change

This book explores the conflict between human individual life and larger uncontrollable forces, calling for a more nuanced understanding of the human predicament and exploring the nature of widespread anxiety and its long-term consequences. It calls for an expansion of research to include the arts and humanities for insights into reconciling this conflict.

Format: Hardback
Length: 150 pages
Publication date: 16 September 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This timely and thought-provoking volume delves into the intricate interplay between human individual existence and the larger, uncontrollable forces that shape our world. Drawing upon the latest insights from phenomenological and existential psychology, it advocates for a more nuanced comprehension of the human predicament. By examining the co-occurring crises of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, the book explores the profound nature of widespread anxiety and its long-term implications for humanity. It calls for a significant expansion of current research to encompass the arts and humanities, recognizing their crucial role in providing critical insights into reconciling this fundamental conflict between humanity and nature.

The volume begins by acknowledging the profound challenges posed by climate change, which has escalated to a global crisis with far-reaching consequences. The author argues that the traditional approaches to addressing environmental issues, such as technological solutions or economic policies, are insufficient and require a deeper understanding of the human psyche. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the interconnectedness of our world, emphasizing the need for a collective response and a reevaluation of our priorities.

Throughout the book, the author explores the various manifestations of anxiety in contemporary society, including fear of the future, uncertainty, and a sense of powerlessness. They argue that these emotions are not merely a reaction to external threats but are deeply rooted in our individual experiences and relationships with the world. The author suggests that by acknowledging and addressing these anxieties, we can cultivate a greater sense of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

The book also delves into the long-term human consequences of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the impact on mental health, social inequality, and the degradation of natural ecosystems. The author argues that these crises are not just environmental or health issues but are fundamentally interconnected and require a holistic approach to address them.

To reconcile this essential conflict between humanity and nature, the author proposes an expansion of current research that incorporates the arts and humanities. They argue that these fields offer unique perspectives and methodologies that can contribute to a deeper understanding of the human predicament. By integrating artistic expression, literature, and philosophy, researchers can gain new insights into the nature of consciousness, empathy, and the relationship between humans and the natural world.

The book concludes by emphasizing the importance of collective action and individual responsibility in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. It calls for a shift in mindset from short-term gains to long-term sustainability and a recognition of the interconnectedness of all life on Earth. The author encourages readers to embrace a more holistic and compassionate approach to life, one that values the interdependence of humanity and nature and seeks to find harmony in our shared existence.

In conclusion, this timely and insightful volume offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the relationship between humanity and nature. By advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the human predicament and exploring the co-occurring crises of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a roadmap for reconciling this fundamental conflict. Through the integration of the arts and humanities, the book offers a unique perspective on the human experience and offers hope for a more sustainable and harmonious future.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031084300
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022