Journey from Climate Doom to Active Hope

When you think about climate change and ecosystems destruction, do you experience feelings of despair or helplessness? Do you want to leave these negative thoughts and feelings behind and take a thought-provoking journey to “active hope”?  In this discussion-oriented class, you will explore the ideas of scientists, social scientists, and philosophers who have shown us how we can create a more hopeful story for ourselves. You will consider this question: How can I become more active—and hopeful—in protecting the Earth and ensuring the well-being of future generations?

Readings:

Dean Moore, Great Tide Rising: Towards Clarity and Moral Courage in a Time of Planetary Change, ISBN: 978-1619029064. Videos and short articles will be assigned before each class.

Thomas G. White is a developmental psychologist whose career focused on teaching and research in K-12 and higher education settings. Since retiring from the University of Virginia in 2017, he has been teaching lifelong learners at Midcoast Senior College, OLLI in Portland, and the College of William and Mary.

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