219 – Social Ecology & the Critique of Hierarchy (Pt 1)
Oct 2, 2020
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This episode of the podcast delves into social ecology and the critique of hierarchy. It explores topics such as Hegel's dialectics and Marx's dialectics, the concept of dominance disputes in nature, the connection between capitalism and the climate crisis, and the urgent need to address the ecological crisis. The episode also touches on the dystopian future created by organizations providing escape from climate change effects, and the desire for socially just ecological societies.
Hierarchies in nature are situational rather than institutionalized, challenging the notion that they are inherent.
Social ecology advocates for a society that redefines work, fosters communal living, and creates a harmonious relationship with nature.
The comparison between crustacean and human hierarchies overlooks fundamental differences in anatomy, behavior, and ecological context.
Dismantling hierarchies and embracing a communal approach can lead to a socially just and ecologically sustainable society.
Deep dives
Hierarchies are a social construct in nature
Social ecology challenges the notion that hierarchies are inherent in nature, arguing that it is a social construct. Animal behavior, such as dominance in lobsters or lions, is situational rather than institutionalized. Hierarchies in nature do not involve command and control with physical violence as seen in human societies. Instead, social ecology highlights the interdependence and mutualism found in natural systems, emphasizing that humans are part of nature and should not seek to dominate it.
Understanding Social Ecology and its Goals
Social ecology is an ecological philosophy that explores the relationship between human society and the natural world. It draws on diverse disciplines such as history, anthropology, biology, and philosophy to understand nature, the role of human society in shaping it, and the need for a critical understanding of humanity's impact. Social ecology promotes a political tradition rooted in direct democracy, solidarity, and an economy based on mutual aid. It envisions a society that redefines work, fosters communal living, and creates a harmonious relationship with nature.
Critiquing the Argument for Hierarchy in Nature
The argument that human hierarchies have a basis in nature, as exemplified by the lobster hierarchy theory, is met with criticism in social ecology. The comparison between crustaceans and humans overlooks fundamental differences in anatomy, behavior, and ecological context. Social ecology emphasizes that while natural systems may exhibit hierarchical patterns, these do not justify or prescribe human social structures. The focus on commanding and controlling relationships in human hierarchies is problematic, as other forms of hierarchy, such as systemic racial inequities, lack this specific dynamic.
Reimagining Humanity's Relationship with Nature
Social ecology challenges the idea of humans dominating nature and encourages a holistic perspective that recognizes humans as part of the natural world. It questions the view that humans can impose their will on nature and highlights the interdependency between humanity and the environment. Social ecology advocates for reshaping human societies through direct democracy, cooperative economics, and an ecological perspective. By fostering mutualistic relationships and rethinking our approach to work and sustainability, social ecology aims to create a society that harmonizes with nature and promotes a shared well-being.
The ecological crisis is a social crisis
The podcast discusses the connection between the ecological crisis and social hierarchies. It emphasizes that the mindset of domination and hierarchy within human society is directly linked to the perception of dominating the natural world. The dominance-based social relationships throughout history have perpetuated the notion of exploiting and controlling the environment. This mentality has led to the mistreatment of the natural world as something to be controlled and manipulated. The podcast highlights the need to address social inequalities and dismantle hierarchical structures in order to effectively address the ecological crisis.
The impact of capitalism on the climate crisis
The podcast explores the role of capitalism in exacerbating the climate crisis. It asserts that capitalism, co-evolving with fossil fuels, has caused the excessive emission of greenhouse gases. The pursuit of continuous economic expansion without limits is a fundamental cause of the climate crisis. The podcast argues that the capitalist system's emphasis on profit and growth leads to wastefulness, overconsumption, and environmental degradation. It critiques the inherent hierarchical relationships within capitalism and emphasizes the need to transition towards alternative economic models that prioritize ecological sustainability and social well-being.
Hierarchy, domination, and social justice
The podcast delves into the interconnectedness of hierarchy, domination, and social justice. It reveals how hierarchical structures and systems of dominance within society contribute to various forms of oppression, including racism, patriarchy, and environmental exploitation. The analysis recognizes the need to challenge these power dynamics and create a society based on principles of democracy, equity, and ecological stewardship. By dismantling hierarchies and embracing a communal approach to property and resources, it suggests that a socially just and ecologically sustainable society can be achieved.
Building an alternative society
The podcast presents the vision of creating an alternative society based on democratic principles, ecological responsibility, and the elimination of hierarchies. It advocates for a communal approach to property and resources, ensuring that everyone's needs are met while minimizing waste and overconsumption. The podcast highlights the importance of technological advancements in recycling, upcycling, and creating durable goods. It encourages grassroots efforts to promote community power, solidarity, and ethical decision-making. By transforming societal structures and fostering a deep connection with the natural world, the podcast argues that it is possible to build a sustainable and just future for all.
The ecological crisis is a social crisis, and in this weeks episode the Wrong Boys have teamed up with educators from the Institute for Social Ecology to explain why
