How Far Should Environmental Protest Go?

Panel discussion on the limits of environmental activism, featuring academics and activists, including audience Q&A.

Tuesday 9 July 5:45 - 7pm Wesfarmers Lecture Theatre, Business School, University of Western Australia

Panel

Anne Schwenkenbecher - Moderater, Senior Lecturer and Academic Chair of Philosophy Murdoch University

Chong-Ming Lim - Nanyang Technological University

Greg Martin - Murdoch University

Joana Partyka - Disrupt Burrup Hub

Robert Delves - Extinction Rebellion Grandparents

Why aren’t we all eco-warriors? There’s a long tradition in philosophy discussing the use of civil disobedience for political goals. What is permissible when it comes to climate protests and activism? Is it ok to damage revered art works for a greater cause? Does it go too far to protest outside the private home of the CEO of a major fossil fuel company? Another – even older - tradition in philosophy (and theology) ponders the justifiability of political violence. The so-called Just War Tradition has influenced International Law from the Geneva Conventions to the Doctrine of Responsibility to Protect (R2P). In the face of runaway global warming and dangerous climate change many fear that our political systems are not apt for addressing the current crisis and averting looming disaster. Are more radical means required? Would fighting for radical climate action be a case of ‘justified’ political violence? Or would it take things too far?