Radical Animism: Reading for the End of the World

Radical Animism is a book that develops a new theory of life for a planet in crisis, reframing our thinking of the Anthropocene with ideas from anthropology, astronomy, deconstruction, evolutionary biology, psychoanalysis, quantum physics, and veganism. It shows how 'literary animism' can open our thinking to the immense power of the non-human world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 24 March 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The urgency of addressing climate change demands a profound reevaluation of our entrenched beliefs in human centrality, superiority, and power. By drawing upon a diverse array of contemporary thinkers, ranging from Freud and Darwin to Latour and Derrida, from Shakespeare and Carroll to Woolf and Kafka, Jemma Deer constructs a groundbreaking theory of life for a planet grappling with crisis. In this innovative and timely work, Deer reimagines our understanding of the Anthropocene through the lens of anthropology, astronomy, deconstruction, evolutionary biology, psychoanalysis, quantum physics, and veganism. Through captivating and thought-provoking readings, this book demonstrates how "literary animism"—the active and transformative life of literature—can expand our horizons to comprehend the immense power and significance of the non-human world.

Introduction:
Climate change poses a significant threat to our planet, demanding a transformative shift in our worldview. Traditional notions of human centrality and superiority must be challenged as we acknowledge the interconnectedness of all living beings and the profound impact of our actions on the environment. In this essay, we will explore the concept of radical animism, which offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between humans and the natural world.

Radical Animism:
Radical animism is a philosophical and ethical framework that emphasizes the inherent value and agency of all living creatures. It rejects the hierarchical view of nature that posits humans as superior to other species and instead recognizes the interdependence and equality of all forms of life. According to radical animism, the natural world is not a resource to be exploited but a living entity that deserves respect and care.

Human Centrality:
Traditional human-centric ideologies have led to a disregard for the well-being of the natural world. We have exploited the planet's resources, polluted its air and water, and caused widespread destruction to ecosystems. Radical animism challenges this notion by advocating for a more holistic approach to human-environment interaction. It emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with the natural world and recognizing the intrinsic value of all forms of life.

Superiority and Power:
Radical animism also challenges the notion of human superiority and power. It recognizes that humans are not the sole determinants of their fate but are part of a larger ecological system. Instead of seeking dominance over nature, radical animism promotes a sense of humility and respect for the natural world. It encourages us to adopt a more collaborative and cooperative approach to environmental management, where humans work alongside other species to protect and preserve the environment.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the reckoning of climate change calls for us to fundamentally rethink our notions of human centrality, superiority, and power. By adopting a radical animist perspective, we can develop a new theory of life for a planet in crisis. We must recognize the inherent value and agency of all living creatures and work towards living in harmony with the natural world. This requires a shift in our mindset, values, and practices, but it is essential for the survival of our species and the planet we inhabit.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 179 x 233 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350249400