Description
IN TIMES OF CATASTROPHE
Book Summary
In a world marked by climate crisis, inequality, and uncertainty, Isabelle Stengers offers us a compass for action. This social and political philosophy essay invites those who feel paralyzed by the magnitude of these problems to mobilize based on an awareness of our vulnerability. Far from falling into defeatism, the author proposes weaving collective resistance and reinventing our capacity to respond to the neoliberal narrative. An urgent book for those who want to stop living in suspense and dare to act.
What is it about?
Isabelle Stengers directs this work to a reader trapped between the urgency to act and a feeling of powerlessness. The author analyzes how the neoliberal narrative produces exploitation, wars, and growing inequalities, and how that same narrative paralyzes us by making us believe it is too late or that everything will fix itself. Confronting this barbarity, Stengers proposes listening to uncomfortable truths, accepting our vulnerability on the planet, and, from there, reinventing political and collective action. The book intertwines shared resistance and capabilities as the only path to building a different future.
Main themes
- Critique of neoliberalism as a paralyzing narrative that produces inequality.
- Human and planetary vulnerability as a starting point for action.
- The reinvention of collective responsiveness in the face of catastrophes.
- The need to weave resistance and alliances from an awareness of the crisis.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at readers interested in contemporary political philosophy, critical thinking, and political ecology. Especially recommended for those seeking to overcome paralysis in the face of the climate and social crisis and who desire tools to think and act from a place of uncertainty. Also for activists, students, and social science professionals who want to delve into a rigorous and proactive analysis of our time.
What this book contributes
- A philosophical framework for understanding collective paralysis and how to overcome it.
- A lucid critique of the neoliberal narrative and its real consequences.
- A proposal to transform vulnerability into political and collective strength.
- Keys to connecting theoretical reflection with practical action and resistance.
- A hopeful perspective that does not avoid the gravity of the crisis.
Technical specifications
- Author: Isabelle Stengers
- Publisher: NED Ediciones
- Language: Spanish
- Topic: Social and political philosophy
- Collection: Huellas y señales
- Publication date: June 2024
- Number of pages: 160
- Weight: 230 g
Editorial review
In Times of Catastrophe is an essential essay for the contemporary reader seeking answers beyond fatalism or denial. Isabelle Stengers combines philosophical rigor with accessible, committed writing, offering an analysis that connects social criticism with ecological urgency. Its primary value lies in transforming the awareness of the crisis into a driver for collective action, without falling into naive optimism. A work that directly challenges those who want to understand and act in a world in suspense.