Dana Fisher, Director of the Center for Environment, Community & Equity at American University, explores the interplay between climate activism and political oppression. She argues that state violence could galvanize public action against climate-deniers. The conversation delves into the impacts of fossil fuels on politics, the dangers of misinformation during crises, and the need for grassroots movements to drive change. Dana discusses how past social movements inform today's energy transitions while emphasizing the power of citizen mobilization in the face of a climate crisis.
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insights INSIGHT
Power Dynamics and Change
Those in power rarely give up their power willingly, hindering systemic change.
Real change requires a bottom-up push, creating a legitimation crisis for those in power.
insights INSIGHT
Realistic Optimism
We must be realistic about the challenges of climate change to avoid being caught off guard.
This realism is necessary to mobilize people and minimize casualties.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Repression and Mobilization
Trump's return to power, coupled with his willingness to use force against citizens, may be a mobilizing factor.
In 'Saving Ourselves: From Climate Shocks to Climate Action,' Dana R. Fisher argues that effective climate action can only be achieved through mass mobilization and radical climate activism. The book assesses the current state of climate policy and private-sector efforts, highlighting their ineffectiveness. Fisher examines the emergence and growth of the radical flank of climate activism, its use of direct action, and its potential evolution as the climate crisis worsens. She emphasizes the importance of creating resilient communities, capitalizing on shocking moments, and cultivating resilience in climate activism. The book offers insights on how social movements can challenge deeply entrenched interests and create opportunities for systemic change.
Hope in the Dark
Laura Henry
Unfortunately, detailed descriptions of the book's content by Laura Henry are not provided in the available sources. It is distinct from the more well-known book 'Hope in the Dark' by Rebecca Solnit.
Do things have to get worse before they get better?
Yes, says Dana Fisher, Director of the Center for Environment, Community & Equity and author of Saving Ourselves. Dana’s research suggests that witnessing the inevitable mass repression of fellow citizens through state violence or incarceration will mobilise the public to take action against climate-denying leaders.
This conversation on resistance is nuanced, addressing the uncomfortable truths that post-industrial democracies are suffering from increasing authoritarian policies which inhibit their right to protest and even speak. President-elect Trump has been forthright about his willingness to deploy the police and national guard against his opponents and American citizens. But Dana argues this worsening state violence could be the very thing that tips the rest of the country into action.
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