The Ethics of the Climate Crisis - by Robin Attfield (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

The planet is in crisis. Time is short, but it is still possible to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions before disaster overtakes us all.

Renowned philosopher Robin Attfield explains the moral reasons for urgent action based on current harms, threats to future generations, and to the species with which we share the planet. In compelling and student-friendly prose, he explores the science of climate change, biodiversity loss and air pollution, climate injustices, political implications of the crisis, and possible responses. Among other things, he argues that measures to introduce climate justice should be paid for by countries able to pay, and by the big polluters in particular. The recently agreed Loss and Damage fund can play a central part in climate funding. Related political measures, such as the introduction of Ecocide as an international crime alongside war crimes, also give cause for hope.

Attfield's passionately argued twentieth book, The Ethics of the Climate Crisis, is crucial reading for our times.

Review Quotes

"Robin Attfield is one of the best environmental ethicists of our times, and his new book manages again to bridge the chasm between abstract moral principles and concrete political reality. Critical citizens who want to be informed about the state of the question both in its normative and its descriptive dimension will benefit from the book."
Vittorio Hösle, University of Notre Dame

"This wide-ranging book is an intensively researched intervention in ongoing debates on climate justice. It is an outstanding contribution due to its comprehensive and biocentric perspective. A must-read for policy makers, scholars and everyone interested in sustaining a life-worthy planet."
Leonie N. Bossert, University of Tübingen

"A compact, clearly written, extremely well-informed and deeply committed contribution to debate on this most urgent issue. Attfield's call for wiser, more responsible stewardship goes along with an exemplary care for facts, figures and detailed reportage. The book should be read by anyone who shares his passionate concern for the flourishing - even the bare survival - of life on Earth."
Christopher Norris, University of Cardiff

"A very readable account of the science involved, together with estimates of climatic effects on all living things, including humans, and an examination of the ethical and moral questions that confront us as the world heats up."
The Friend

"... blends scientific facts, philosophical reasoning, and ethical concerns, making it a valuable guide for students, policymakers, and activists."
The Philosophical Quarterly

About the Author

Robin Attfield is Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at Cardiff University.