This philosophical summer school centers on three challenging issues concerning climate activism today:
- the issue of anger as an appropriate and productive ‘climate emotion’;
- the issue of social and political polarization as unintended consequence of climate activism;
- the issue of resistance and the legitimate use of violence.
With a particular emphasis on the themes of anger, backlash, and violence, this summer school critically engages with contemporary philosophical questions about climate activism. Two keynote lectures – by Harriët Bergman (University of Antwerp), “Climate Activism: Anger, Violence, Backlash,” and by Andrea Brock (University of Sussex), “From Climate Despair to Rage and Insurrection: Getting out of ‘Activism’ and Creating a Culture of Resistance” – offer nuanced introductions and thought-provoking analyses that frame the central concerns of the program.
The keynote lectures are complemented by a seminar series that explores the philosophical roots of current environmental thought (Tom Froy and Oscar de Nijs Bik), examines the risk of backlash within ecological militancy (Julie Van der Wielen), investigates the debate between deep ecology and social ecology (Linde De Vroey and Arthur Obst), interrogates the legitimacy of militant political tactics (Coen Schuckink Kool), analyzes the use of irony in climate activism (Andrew Telford), assesses the aptness of anger in environmental justice (Jocelyn Longdon), and considers the role of academic activism (panel discussion).
These theoretical sessions, scheduled for the mornings, are combined with an applied and immersive afternoon program. It includes three practical workshops: Non Violent Direct Action (led by Tractie), Climate and Emotions (led by Stroomversnellers), and Backlash from Industry (led by Climate Obstruction Network).
In addition to these structured learning opportunities, participants are encouraged to actively contribute through roundtable discussions and to present their own research on climate activism in short paper sessions. A program of social activities – including excursions, an artist-led city walk, and a vegan cooking workshop – complements the themes explored during the seven-day summer school, creating a wonderful and relevant learning experience in the heart of Antwerp’s historic city centre.