Hothouse Utopia - Dialectics Facing Unsavable Futures

The future is bleak due to right-wing populism, widening inequalities,precarious forms of labor, surveillance capitalism, and a worsening ecological crisis. Ryan Gunderson examines the modes of action and thought through which we react to the likelihood of a catastrophic future, and how we can productively sustain the search for a better world against all odds.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 216 pages
\n Publication date: 29 October 2021
\n Publisher: John Hunt Publishing
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The future appears to be a bleak and uncertain landscape, marked by the widespread emergence of right-wing populism, growing disparities in wealth and income, the normalization of precarious forms of labor, the prevalence of surveillance capitalism, and a worsening ecological crisis. One pressing concern is the likelihood of catastrophic climate change, coupled with the absence of a global movement with the necessary organization and vision to effectively challenge our current suicidal social order. This realization leads to a crushing sense of hopelessness, as future generations may be condemned to a prehistory where humanity remains dominated by its own creations, rather than actively shaping the historical process in accordance with rational principles.

In response to this daunting prospect, Ryan Gunderson delves into the modes of action and thought that reproduce rather than challenge the status quo in the face of the likelihood of a catastrophic future. Drawing upon the ideas of influential thinkers such as Theodor W. Adorno, Ernst Bloch, Lucien Goldmann, and others, Gunderson explores how we can sustain a productive search for a better world against all odds.

One critical aspect of Gunderson's analysis is the recognition that our current societal structures and systems of thought are deeply entrenched in a mindset that prioritizes short-term gains and immediate gratification over long-term sustainability and collective well-being. This mindset, he argues, is a major contributor to the current crisis we face. To overcome this, Gunderson advocates for a shift in our values and priorities, emphasizing the importance of empathy, compassion, and cooperation among individuals and communities.

He also suggests that we need to reimagine our relationship with technology and the environment. Instead of viewing technology as a tool for domination and control, Gunderson proposes that we harness its potential to create a more sustainable and equitable society. This includes developing renewable energy sources, implementing sustainable agriculture practices, and promoting digital technologies that can enhance human productivity while reducing environmental impact.

Furthermore, Gunderson emphasizes the importance of education and awareness-raising in shaping a better future. He argues that individuals need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the challenges of the 21st century, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. This requires a commitment to lifelong learning and a dedication to promoting education and access to knowledge for all members of society.

In conclusion, the future appears to be a daunting and uncertain landscape, but Gunderson's analysis offers a glimmer of hope. By advocating for a shift in our values, priorities, and relationship with technology and the environment, we can create a more sustainable and equitable society that is capable of addressing the challenges of the 21st century. This requires a collective effort, where individuals, communities, and governments work together to build a better world for future generations.

\n Weight: 250g\n
Dimension: 139 x 215 x 15 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781789047691\n \n