Saving Ourselves: From Climate Shocks to Climate Action

Climate change is an existential crisis that has failed to be addressed by institutions. Fossil fuel interests maintain a stranglehold on political and economic power, and civil society has only been able to pressure decision-makers to adopt watered-down policies. Climate activism has become increasingly confrontational, and Dana R. Fisher argues that there is a realistic path forward for climate action through mass mobilization that responds to the growing severity and frequency of disastrous events. She examines the radical flank of the climate movement, its emergence and growth, its use of direct action, and how it might evolve as the climate crisis worsens.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2024
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Climate change has been recognized as an existential crisis for decades, and the failure of our institutions to address it has become increasingly evident. Governments have struggled to meet even modest goals, and fossil fuel interests maintain a stranglehold on political and economic power. Despite growing concern from everyday people, civil society has been unable to compel decision-makers to adopt policies that effectively address the climate crisis. The climate crisis continues to worsen, leaving many wondering if there is any hope of achieving the systemic change required.

In her book, Saving Ourselves: How Social Movements Can Take Power Back from Deeply Entrenched Interests and Open Windows of Opportunity for Transformative Climate Action, Dana R. Fisher offers a ray of hope. Fisher argues that there is a realistic path forward for climate action, but only through mass mobilization that responds to the growing severity and frequency of disastrous events. She assesses the current state of affairs and highlights why public policy and private-sector efforts have been ineffective.

Fisher explores the radical flank of the climate movement, examining its emergence, growth, and use of direct action. She considers when and how activism is most successful, identifying the importance of creating community, capitalizing on shocking moments, and cultivating resilience. The book offers timely insights on how social movements can take power back from deeply entrenched interests and open windows of opportunity for transformative climate action.

One of the key themes in Saving Ourselves is the need for collective action. Fisher emphasizes that the climate crisis is not just a problem for individual countries or communities, but a global challenge that requires collective efforts. She argues that social movements can play a crucial role in mobilizing people and bringing about change, but only if they are able to build strong alliances and create a sense of urgency around the issue.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of public policy in addressing the climate crisis. Fisher argues that while public policy can be a powerful tool for change, it must be designed with the needs of marginalized communities in mind. She suggests that policymakers should prioritize policies that promote social justice, equity, and sustainability, and that they should work to dismantle the systems of power that perpetuate climate injustice.

Fisher also examines the role of the private sector in addressing the climate crisis. While she acknowledges that the private sector has a significant role to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, she argues that it must be held accountable for its actions and that it should prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. She suggests that companies should adopt sustainable practices, reduce their carbon footprint, and invest in renewable energy sources.

Saving Ourselves is a clear-eyed yet optimistic book that offers a roadmap for climate action. Fisher provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing the climate movement and offers practical solutions for building a more sustainable and just world. The book is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the climate crisis and wants to learn more about how social movements can take power back from deeply entrenched interests and open windows of opportunity for transformative climate action.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 148 x 225 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231209304