
Is Climate Change an Existential Threat?
The concept of existential threats has taken center stage in the climate debate. As the consequences of global warming become increasingly stark, experts are now debating whether or not human-induced climate change poses a threat to humanity’s very existence.
In a recent conversation with Gizmodo, researchers and academics from various disciplines shed light on this crucial question. While some argue that existential threats are often linked to planetary-scale ecological disasters, others emphasize the need to consider the intersection of ecological problems and political systems in order to address the issue effectively.
Olúfámi O. Tíwó, an assistant professor of philosophy at Georgetown University, emphasizes that “climate change is an existential threat to humanity and human society. But the reason why it’s an existential crisis for human society is not directly linked to the atmospheric and ecological effects of climate change.” Instead, he argues, we must consider how our political systems respond to these crises.
On the other hand, Renée Lertzman, an existential psychologist focusing on climate and environmental psychology, believes that “it’s hard for me to imagine climate change not being considered an existential threat.” From a psychological perspective, she notes that the unique combination of factors contributing to our experience and comprehension of climate change creates a distinctive set of existential threats.
Similarly, Renee Lertzman emphasizes that climate change forces us to confront the consequences of industrialized practices and reevaluate what it means to live a good life. This existential crisis, according to her, can lead humans to question their sense of purpose and the meaning of their existence.
In conclusion, while there may be differing perspectives on this issue, one thing is clear: climate change poses an existential threat that requires immediate attention and collective action.
(Note: The article you requested was written based on the provided data. It attempts to summarize the main points presented in the text.
Source: gizmodo.com