Inspired to Action: A Series

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Fall 2020
Wednesday, November 11, 2020 – 12:00am

In the face of complex promblems and crises, we may easily fall into complacency, apathy or despair.  It will be fine. Or not. [Shrug]

What can break us out of passivity and get us moving? In this series of interactive, on-line forums, we will explore the sources of inspiration that fuel effective activism. 

Science writers and authors Maygen Keller and Emily Hoff take us on a guided tour of the deep history of some of the most beautiful places in America. How can understanding the vast time scale of geologic processes shift our attitudes towards the natural world, the forces that threaten it and move us into activism? Joining the conversation will be Geoffrey Supran, MIT alum and currently a Research Associate in the Department of the History of Science at Harvard University. Working alongside Professor Naomi Oreskes, he investigates the history of global warming politics; particularly the climate communications, denial, and delay tactics of fossil fuel interests. 

How can the arts help us navigate a difficult issue like race? David Howse (Executive Director, ArtsEmerson) and Kevin Beccera, associate producer of Detroit Red, will discuss their work on the February 2020 premiere of Will Powers’ innovative play. Detroit Red is a brutally honest, human portrayal of the young Malcolm X as he navigated street life and the criminal underworld of 1940s Boston.

Hope is a powerful force when used well. Author Rebecca Solnit describes it as “an ax you break down doors with in an emergency.”  Professor Sally Haslanger (MIT Linguistics and Philosophy) hosts this conversation with guests Professors Myisha Cheery and Jesse Prinz about staying motivated in the midst of a long struggle for justice.

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