Planet: Critical

Silvia Federici, a Marxist-feminist scholar and author of Caliban and the Witch, discusses the critical link between capitalism and women's reproductive rights. She reveals how women’s bodies and the Earth are central to the capitalist system. The conversation delves into contemporary challenges women's rights face globally, the importance of reclaiming feminist analysis, and how women are key players in both ecological and economic struggles. Federici emphasizes the necessity for a revived feminist movement to counter these intertwined crises.

Gerard Wedderburn-Bisshop, a scientist for the World Preservation Foundation and former Principal Scientist with Queensland Government Natural Resources, sheds light on the surprising truth about global heating. He argues that animal agriculture may actually be a bigger contributor to climate change than fossil fuels, highlighting flaws in current emissions accounting methods. The discussion also covers the urgent need for improved metrics to measure methane emissions, the significance of reforestation, and the benefits of shifting towards plant-based diets as part of sustainable climate solutions.

Max Wilbert, a seasoned activist and community organizer at CELDF, dives deep into community resilience and local action as vital responses to environmental destruction. He discusses a groundbreaking bill in New York that grants rights to water, and the legal frameworks needed for climate activism. Max highlights the importance of grassroots movements, permaculture, and collective action. He asserts that resilience is not just survival; it’s a fierce form of resistance against a crumbling empire. This engaging conversation weaves together activism, community, and the rights of nature.

Christine Webb, a primatologist at Harvard University and author of 'The Arrogant Ape', challenges the idea of human superiority over nature. She discusses how our belief in exceptionalism fuels ecological crises and reveals that children inherently connect with the natural world before societal conditioning sets in. Exploring the legacy of Cartesian thought, she critiques outdated views on animal consciousness and advocates for deeper connections with non-human beings, highlighting their emotional healing power. A thought-provoking call to rethink our relationship with all living creatures!

Damien Williams, an Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Data Science at UNC, shares insights on the complexities of language and communication. He discusses how our personalized realities create barriers to mutual understanding, even on shared facts like science. The conversation dives into the impact of technology and misinformation on discourse, exploring how rhetoric shapes perceptions in politics. Damien emphasizes the need for tough, honest dialogues to bridge divides and build solidarity in our increasingly polarized society.

Sarah Stein Lubrano, a neuroscientist and political theorist, delves into the decline of meaningful political discourse and the breakdown of community ties. She argues that conventional debate fails to change minds and that personal relationships are key. Exploring the effectiveness of deep canvassing, Lubrano shares strategies for fostering empathetic dialogue. Additionally, she discusses how social connections can enhance political engagement and promote activism, suggesting grassroots movements as vital for reshaping political consciousness.

In this engaging conversation, Celine Semaan, a Lebanese-Canadian researcher and co-founder of Slow Factory, dives into the urgent need for change to combat climate crisis and colonial legacies. She highlights the challenges of traditional climate organizations and discusses Slow Factory's innovative, risk-centered approach to environmental activism. Celine emphasizes the importance of community empowerment and unlearning entrenched narratives, showing how accessible education can drive meaningful societal shifts. Join her transformative vision for a better future.

Willow Defebaugh, writer and co-founder of Atmos Magazine, explores our connection to nature and its designs. She discusses the importance of empathy and humble conversations to bridge societal divides. Highlighting the roots of ecological crises in historical injustices, Willow addresses moral clarity and the necessity of collaboration. The dialogue dives into identity politics and allyship, advocating for understanding beyond political labels. Ultimately, the conversation calls for collective action and a reimagining of how we perceive and engage with each other and the natural world.

Émile Torres, a philosopher of extinction and author of 'Human Extinction: A History of the Science and Ethics of Annihilation', dives deep into existential risks and the obsessions of today's tech billionaires. He explores contrasting historical and contemporary views on extinction, while critiquing the elitism in Silicon Valley that prioritizes survival over democratic ideals. Torres discusses the perils of artificial superintelligence, the moral complexities of long-termism, and highlights the urgent need for a proactive approach to our dire global crises.

Chumpi Washikiat, an Achuar leader and eco-tourism advocate, shares insights on the challenges facing his community. He discusses the impact of industrial encroachment and the fight for indigenous rights within Ecuador. Highlighting the importance of collective action, Chumpi emphasizes eco-tourism as a sustainable alternative to extraction. He also shares captivating stories of shamanism and traditional ceremonies, illustrating the deep spiritual connection the Achuar people have with the Amazon. Their narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the need to integrate indigenous wisdom into global environmental solutions.