Earth-bound in times of climate crisis
| Authors | Aldo Houterman, Mario Veen |
|---|---|
| Published in | Environmental Philosophy |
| Publication date | 2026 |
| Research groups | Sociale Interactie in de Publieke Ruimte |
| Type | Article |
Summary
This article examines Michel Serres’s The Natural Contract (TNC) as a source of inspiration for reconceptualizing the relationship between humanity, law, and Earth in the context of the current climate crisis. TNC challenges traditional social contract theories by emphasizing the interdependence of human bodies and objects of nature, framing law as a “way of thinking” that exposes an implicit contract with nature. Through a selective reading of the text, we argue that TNC offers a radical diagnostic tool for understanding the symbiotic relationship between the global Earth and “tectonic plates of humanity.” Building on Serres’s engagement with politics, modern information theory, and ancient physical skills, this article explores how (physical) education and law can facilitate a reorientation toward long-term, planetary timescales. Ultimately, we contend that TNC provides a compelling framework for reimagining climate policy, ethics, and pedagogy in an era marked by ecological tipping points and human interconnectedness
On this publication contributed
| Language | Engels |
|---|---|
| Published in | Environmental Philosophy |
| Key words | climate crisis, The Natural Contract (TNC) |
| Digital Object Identifier | 10.5840/envirophil2026615158 |
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