Critical Theory and Climate Change: Collective Subjectivity, Evolution and Modernity

Abstract

The social sciences, particularly sociology but also critical theory, have still insufficiently dealt with climate change, especially at the theoretical level. Marx and Marxism, the Frankfurt School and recent approaches in these traditions have articulated some ideas that may furnish a basis to tackle this shortcoming. This article initially presents and draws upon these ideas, developing a theorization about collective subjectivity—as a specific conceptualization of social systems and ‘nature’—, with a multidimensional standpoint. It emphasizes a plural material dimension as well as diverse levels of subjectivity and intentionality. An analysis of the concepts of the Anthropocene and Capitalocene ensues, including a discussion of the role of the human species, as well as the developmental trends underlying climate change—, featuring capitalist accumulation and the objectification of the material world by the modern state. An analysis of contemporary modernity and the alternatives to tackle climate change concludes the discussion.