7. Hope For Tomorrow: Roman Krznaric x “Basin and Range”
Apr 29, 2021
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In this podcast, Roman Krznaric and Michael Bungay Stanier discuss the urgent need for long-term thinking to preserve our planet. Topics include channeling anger into action, being a 'good ancestor,' changing habits, and activists' responses. The conversation emphasizes the importance of caring for the Earth for future generations and embracing a long-term perspective.
34:49
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Quick takeaways
Channel anger into constructive action to combat environmental issues.
Embrace long-term thinking to become a 'good ancestor' by considering future generations in decision-making.
Deep dives
Empathy Across Time and Space
Roman Krasnerik, a philosopher and author of 'The Good Ancestor,' explores the practice of empathy across time, urging us to consider future generations who have no say in our current decisions. He highlights the challenge of imagining the lives of those who will inhabit the future and stresses the importance of bringing their voices into our present choices. Krasnerik's reflection on becoming a good ancestor prompts a shift in perspective, emphasizing the need to consider the impact of our actions on future generations.
Deep Time and Long-Term Thinking
Roman Krasnerik delves into the concept of deep time through a reading from John McPhee's 'Basin and Range,' illustrating the vastness of Earth's history and the fleeting nature of human existence. Krasnerik reflects on the urgency of addressing environmental issues and the consequences of unsustainable practices, emphasizing the necessity of living within the planet's boundaries. The discussion emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking and taking action to preserve the planet for future generations.
Challenges in Embracing Long-Term Thinking
Krasnerik addresses the challenges of promoting long-term thinking in a world dominated by short-term cycles in politics and business. He discusses the struggle faced by individuals and organizations in prioritizing long-term goals over immediate gains, citing examples like Dong's transition to renewable energy. Krasnerik emphasizes the significance of legacy and the need to inspire leaders to adopt cathedral thinking, envisioning and working towards a sustainable future beyond their lifetime.
Characteristics of Those Embracing Long-Term Thinking
Exploring the connection between long-term thinking and social transformation, Krasnerik reflects on the diverse characteristics of individuals committed to being good ancestors. He highlights the misconception that long-term thinking is exclusive to privileged groups, citing examples of indigenous cultures and refugees who demonstrate a deep sense of intergenerational responsibility. Krasnerik encourages self-reflection and habitual practices focused on leaving a positive legacy for future generations.
This won’t, unfortunately, be news to you: Each year, we consume the resources of 1.6 planet earths. We’re diminishing the environment, exhausting biological capital … and heading towards, well, who really knows... Is there hope? Yes. Is it up to you? Yes, at least partially. And where do we begin? By understanding what it takes to be a good ancestor. Practical philosopher, Roman Krznaric, joins Michael Bungay Stanier for a conversation about preserving our planet by adopting a long-term way of thinking that will not only benefit us but succeeding generations as well. Get book links and resources at https://www.mbs.works/2-pages-podcast/
Roman reads pages from John McPhee’s book ‘Basin and Range.’ [reading begins at 6:22]
Hear Michael and Roman talk about:
Channeling your anger into constructive action. [11:28] | Being a ‘good ancestor.’ [14:03] | “We can change our habits,” Roman says. [21:10] | “Nothing in nature grows forever.” [24:27] | Activists’ responses to Roman’s book and the concept of long-term thinking. [25:49] | “Take care of the place that will take care of our offspring.” [30:00]
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