3 - Setting out the stall: propositions and key ideas

Summary

This chapter outlines some of main ideas and frameworks that occur in my writing. Although many of these are articulated in the chapters that follow, Chapter 3 is intended to be supplementary. The first part, “Fifty propositions” is an attempt to encapsulate my argument in an accessible and concise form. I have often used the device of propositions in lectures and writing. This, partly, is because they are easily read. But also, the format invites the reader to consider the statements and consider how far they agree or differ – and why that might be, thus stimulating critical reflection. The second part outlines some key ideas as an introduction to longer accounts in the ensuing chapters, or in some cases, provides coverage where absent in those chapters.

FIFTY PROPOSITIONS: THE ARGUMENT IN A NUTSHELL

• 1. The liveability of the human and biospheric future depends on our collective capacity and ability to learn and change radically in the course of one generation.

• 2. Currently, we in the Western culture do not see and “read” the world as we should – and as we now must. As the world is systemic and complex we have to learn to perceive and think relationally – that is, ecologically and inclusively, and with regard to wellbeing for all including the nonhuman world.

• 3. Failure to do so over generations is a root cause of the nexus of “wicked issues” that now threaten the possibility of a safe future.

• 4. The interdependence and mutual wellbeing of people and planet now has to be paramount in thinking, values and actions at all levels of society.

• 5. Urgency necessitates building agency and capacity – this is something in which education uniquely can excel.

• 6. Transformative action is required across most areas of human activity to ensure a survivable liveable future by 2050 and beyond; this shift is known inter alia as the Great Transition, or Giant Leap.

• 7. Transformative action depends on rapid societal learning. There are signs that this is happening, but acceleration and global reach is urgently needed if humanity is to maximize its chances of securing the future.

• 8. Desirable change towards sustainability can be advanced through a number of means or instruments including governance, legal regulation, financial incentives and sanctions, and information.