Social Transformation for Climate Change: A New Framework for Democracy

This book explores how social transformation is necessary and possible to respond to the climate crisis without social collapse, drawing on the works of Karl Polanyi and Thomas Piketty. It highlights key commonalities in historic social transformations and delves into specific instances of inequality and poverty from Britain, the USA, Australia, and the Global South. It outlines how a new social democratic transformation could generate a better future, creating the social solidarity necessary to cope with the climate crisis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Climate change is a pressing global issue that requires urgent action. The impacts of climate change are already being felt across the world, from rising temperatures and extreme weather events to sea-level rise and loss of biodiversity. If we are to mitigate the worst effects of climate change and create a sustainable future for generations to come, we must address both the causes and consequences of climate change.

One of the key challenges we face in addressing climate change is the need for social transformation. Social transformation refers to the process of changing the way we live, work, and interact with each other to reduce our impact on the environment and promote social justice. This requires a shift in our values, attitudes, and behaviors, as well as a change in the structures and systems that govern our society.

The book argues that social transformation is both necessary and possible if democracies are to respond effectively to the climate crisis without social collapse. Democracies are characterized by their commitment to the rule of law, respect for human rights, and the participation of citizens in decision-making processes. These values and institutions provide the framework for building a sustainable and just society.

However, the book also notes that social transformation is not easy. It requires a long-term commitment and a willingness to challenge the status quo. It requires a shift in our collective mindset, as well as a change in the way we think about the environment and our place in it.

To achieve social transformation, the book suggests a number of strategies. These include promoting renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and investing in sustainable infrastructure. It also calls for a shift in our food production and consumption patterns, to reduce our impact on the environment and promote healthy diets.

In addition, social transformation requires a commitment to social justice. This includes addressing issues such as income inequality, discrimination, and social exclusion. It requires a redistribution of resources and power, to ensure that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

The book also highlights the importance of political leadership in driving social transformation. Political leaders must be willing to take bold action and to prioritize the needs of the environment and society over short-term political gains. They must also be willing to engage with citizens and other stakeholders, to build consensus and support for their policies.

Finally, the book emphasizes the need for international cooperation in addressing climate change. Climate change is a global issue that requires a coordinated response from all countries. This requires a shift in our global institutions, such as the United Nations, to prioritize climate change and to provide the resources and support needed for countries to implement their climate policies.

In conclusion, climate change is a pressing global issue that requires urgent action. Social transformation is both necessary and possible if democracies are to respond effectively to the climate crisis without social collapse. By promoting renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and investing in sustainable infrastructure, we can create a sustainable and just society. By addressing issues such as income inequality, discrimination, and social exclusion, we can promote social justice. And by engaging with citizens and other stakeholders, and building consensus and support for our policies, we can drive social transformation. International cooperation is also essential to address climate change, as it requires a coordinated response from all countries.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032465302