Protecting Society from Itself: Reconnecting Ecology and Economy

Abstract

Karr will present the paradox: As scientific understanding of Earth and the effects of humans on Earth systems expand, the threats to Earth's living systems—human and nonhuman—worsen. He will ask: How can we be smarter and more knowledgeable, yet ignore so many of the lessons of that knowledge? He will argue that humanity needs to revise its actions in four ways: 1. Recognize relationship between ecology and economy. 2. Moderate negative effects of global business networks. 3. Make our voices heard in professional, social, and civic circles. 4. Improve institutions of governance.