American Ecofascism: A Conversation with Alexander Menrisky

Published in 1993, 'Parable of the Sower' is a dark and vivid portrayal of a future where global climate change and economic crises have led to social chaos. The story is told through the diary entries of Lauren Olamina, a 15-year-old Black girl living in a gated community near Los Angeles. Lauren suffers from hyperempathy, a condition that makes her feel the pain and pleasure of others. As her community is destroyed by external threats, Lauren embarks on a perilous journey north, developing a new faith called Earthseed along the way. Earthseed's central doctrine is that 'God is Change' and cannot be resisted, but can be influenced. The novel explores themes of survival, faith, family, hope, and community in a world torn apart by environmental devastation, economic collapse, and violence.

In 'Ecotopia', Ernest Callenbach imagines a society that has achieved a perfect balance between human beings and the environment. The story follows William Weston, a reporter from the United States, as he visits Ecotopia twenty years after its secession. Weston is impressed and unsettled by Ecotopia's earth-friendly agenda, which includes energy-efficient mini-cities, zero-tolerance pollution control, tree worship, ritual war games, and a woman-dominated government. The novel explores themes of sustainable practices, decentralized energy production, green building, and a highly localized system of universal medical care. Through Weston's experiences, the book presents a vision of an alternative, ecologically sound lifestyle that challenges the consumerist and materialistic values of modern society.

Sarah Jaquette Ray's "A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety" offers a comprehensive exploration of the emotional responses to the climate crisis. The book delves into the psychological impacts of climate change, examining feelings of grief, despair, and eco-anxiety. Ray provides practical strategies and frameworks for coping with these emotions and fostering resilience. She emphasizes the importance of collective action and community building in addressing climate change. The book serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to understand and navigate their emotional responses to the climate crisis.