SG - Beyond the Dichotomy of Right and Wrong

In high-income countries such as the Netherlands, this may entail curbing consumption and embracing degrowth. Yet similar arguments in lower-middle-income countries like India, where 810 million people still rely on food subsidies, remain a lower priority. For many, economic growth and the promises of the post-liberalisation trajectory still remain a preference. Such growth, however, entails intensified resource extraction and rising emissions, while risking the deepening of existing structural inequalities and injustice.

In this light, can we continue to use the language of ‘climate justice’ to categorise actors and actions as right or wrong? Sumit Vij will argue that Indian mythology and philosophy can offer an alternative grammar and promote deliberation instead of polarisation. Critical environmental issues such as climate change can be understood, and a way forward might be posited using the ‘context-based morality’, making a shift in perspective to right vs another right. To set the record straight, the alternative approach to morality does not support the post-truth world of factually incorrect arguments.

It seems difficult to not become pessimistic in times of an unfolding climate disaster and geopolitical crisis. As our attention is drawn to conflict, war and imperialism, concerns for the climate seem to diminish and the 1.5C degree target is steadily moving out of reach. Where do we draw hope from in such desperate times? Join us to explore different strategies and sources of inspiration for bridging pessimism and hope to build a more sustainable future.