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The Nobel-prize winner geologist, Paul Crutzen came up with a surprising suggestion more than a decade ago. Let’s name the present geological epoch Anthropocene, the “time of the human”, because we entered an era in planetary history in which humans appear as a major geological force. Interestingly, the career of this concept overstepped the boundaries of natural and social sciences, even being picked up by art theory. Whether criticized or accepted, it became a central meeting ground between previously separated disciplines.
The aim of the module is to explore Anthropocene, this charismatic mega-concept, and to get familiar with some of the most influential figures who shaped our thinking about nature and society in the 21st century. During the module we explore the complex, entangled nature of our present condition beyond the familiar narratives about climate crisis through establishing connections between Earth sciences, economics, history, social sciences, ecology and even popular culture. Key concepts that emerge during the module may later benefit students interested in philosophy, contemporary art, social or environmental sciences.
During the module we try to navigate through this diverse landscape. Anthropocene is rather the name of a story we tell than a neutral label. The way we tell this story shapes our understanding of history, human nature, and the strong connection between social and environmental injustice. If our old ideas failed us to generate sustainable life, “staying with the trouble”, as Donna Haraway suggests, requires imagination, invention, collaboration and experimentation to think and tell stories of possible futures.
Module leader: Barna Orsolya
