UC San Diego

My thesis holds that humans and other animals are not separate, yet each species is unique: in possession of different strengths and weaknesses. I will focus herein on our own human species’ particular strengths and weaknesses because these have shaped the present moment of planetary climate crisis. I argue that our ability to consciously influence our own evolution through the epigenetic influence of our species’ tool usage puts the possibility, and therefore responsibility, for correcting our present course of mass extinction squarely upon our shoulders. The very traits of humanity that brought us to this point can indeed chart quite a different course than the one we are on. Our capabilities eliminate the need for our current misgivings, prevarications, and distractions from doing the work at hand and they mitigate against denial, pastoral nostalgia, inaction, and further injustices towards one another. We are confronted on a daily basis with the duties of planetary ecosystemic care, yet the majority have not taken them on. It is time for us to realize our full human capabilities by embracing of our corresponding human responsibilities. I will indicate that art’s imaginative storytelling and cultural influence can help us along the path, both individually and collectively.