We Can Fix Climate ChangeWidely regarded as the greatest living sci-fi writer, Kim Stanley Robinson delivered a talk at UCLA on the political war on science, and what he calls “futurecide,” the deliberate destruction of the future for short-term power. He spoke on economic levers that could force a global energy transition, the fallout of defunding scientific research, and why surrendering to cynicism is the greatest risk of all. “There’s genocide.
There’s ecocide. And now, futureside,” he said. Science, he argued, is under attack — not just through neglect but through deliberate obstruction. The question isn’t whether change will happen. It’s who will shape it.
Text above from original video description.
Summary
The video features a seminar centered on environmental challenges, particularly emphasizing imagination and literature’s role in sustainability. Hosted by Professor Alex Hall, the series includes a range of expert speakers addressing vital topics related to environmental issues.
The highlighted speaker is Kim Stanley Robinson, a renowned science fiction author with a focus on environmental themes in his work. Throughout his discussion, Robinson merges narrative storytelling, scientific understanding, and socio-political commentary to present an optimistic view on confronting climate change, despite the dire realities we face. He presents a philosophy of “opop,” a term he coined to define optimistic scenarios that are realistic but far from utopian. His insights stress resilience, collective action, and actionable strategies for navigating climate crises. The session concludes with a dynamic Q&A, where Robinson engages in discussions on the role of science, law, and adaptability in addressing climate change narratives.
Highlights
- 🌍 Interdisciplinary Approach: The seminar series merges environmental science with humanities, showcasing how storytelling is vital for inspiring change.
- 🌟 Optimism in Dystopia: Robinson presents a counter-narrative to pervasive dystopian tales, advocating for realistic yet hopeful futures.
- 📖 Role of Narrative: Literature acts as a vehicle to engage broader audiences in climate action, making complex topics accessible through storytelling.
- 🐧 Call for Solidarity: Drawing parallels with penguins, Robinson emphasizes the importance of collective voice and action against oppression and ecological threats.
- 🔍 Science as Ideology: He argues for the recognition of science as a communal effort, promoting collective understanding and action against climate threats.
- 🔄 Decarbonization Challenges: He outlines the need for decarbonizing various sectors and the social and economic adjustments required for this transition.
- 🌈 Future Inspired by Hope: Engaging with themes of hope and practicality, Robinson envisions a future shaped by informed action rather than despair.
