The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis

Based on the actions listed in Chapter 8, make a plan for what you and your family could do in the short term and the long term to fight climate change. Which ones would be easiest for you and which would be more difficult? Why do you think that is? How could your family members support each other to help reach these goals?

Research policy trends and choices regarding transportation and housing in the United States in the mid-20th century. How did those policies affect the issue of climate change, either positively and negatively? Consider things like the building of highways and rail systems, the rise of suburbs, local zoning rules regarding housing, etc.Research policy trends and choices regarding transportation and housing in the United States in the mid-20th century. How did those policies affect the issue of climate change, either positively and negatively? Consider things like the building of highways and rail systems, the rise of suburbs, local zoning rules regarding housing, etc.

The authors stress the need for strong democracies to lead the way in managing the transition to a greener future. However, in the past few decades, China—a country that is not a democracy—has built more miles of high-speed rail than most other countries; it has also been a leader in solar and wind power. Do you think the authors are right that democracies must lead the way? Why or why not?

Why is defending the truth one of the authors’ recommended actions for combatting climate change? What do fake news and social media have to do with cleaning up the environment?

Describe a time you used “stubborn optimism” to attain a seemingly impossible goal. What were you trying to accomplish and why was it so difficult? How were you finally able to succeed?

The authors present two potential scenarios for 2050, depending on whether or not society acts now to fight climate change. In your perfect world, what would 2050 be like? Include descriptions of society, the economy, transportation, manufacturing, farming, and any other areas you think are important.

Today, space travel and exploration are expanding, often through private companies. Some people have suggested that life in space or on other planets could be part of the solution to climate change. Do you think this will be feasible in the future? Why or why not?

The authors describe the phenomenon of “confirmation bias,” in which people seek information that confirms beliefs they already hold. Consider your own consumption of the news and information. How could you avoid confirmation bias? What steps could you take to actively seek different viewpoints and get outside your own personal bubble?