Taming the Anthropocene: A Sociological Analysis

In the face of the ecological crisis, our session aims to analyze the conditions that limit universal and activist ecological awareness and the possibilities of practical actions to protect the environment. We will consider the emergence of ecological movements, which are gaining some social support, as well as the change in ways of thinking and acting in an era of threats to humanity and nature. We will analyze the political, social, and psychological contexts that influence the formation of the ecological class and look at the barriers that hinder its emergence.

During the session, we will also address the issue of redefining freedom in the context of coexistence with nature and the fight for the planet’s survival. The understanding of time, in which the present becomes crucial for the future, and the need to redefine inter-species boundaries and social justice will be essential topics of discussion. We will pay attention to the macro and micro dimensions of changes that affect the individual’s responsibility for future generations and social passivity in the face of known and perceived ecological threats. The lack of activity is mainly related to the emergence of the society of fatigue, the existential condition of contemporary Western society living in the era of acceleration. Moreover, inertia in this area may have a habitual basis and embody the modernist paradigm of development based on dedication to work and professional careers.

An essential element of our debate will be the analysis of generational conflict, which is revealed in the context of the legacy left by modernist ancestors, as well as the impact of new technologies and local wars on environmental degradation. The problem will be discussed: how the destructive forces of modernity, such as growing consumption and tourism, are taming our perception of the Anthropocene.

To sum up, our session aims to identify the elements of taming the Anthropocene and start a constructive discussion on actions that can lead to a paradigm shift in thinking about ecology as a political and ideological sphere that can contribute to saving our planet.