A B S T R A C T The most critical question for climate research is no longer about the problem, b... more A B S T R A C T The most critical question for climate research is no longer about the problem, but about how to facilitate the transformative changes necessary to avoid catastrophic climate-induced change. Addressing this question, however, will require massive upscaling of research that can rapidly enhance learning about transformations. Ten essentials for guiding action-oriented transformation and energy research are therefore presented, framed in relation to second-order science. They include: (1) Focus on transformations to low-carbon, resilient living; (2) Focus on solution processes; (3) Focus on 'how to' practical knowledge; (4) Approach research as occurring from within the system being intervened; (5) Work with normative aspects; (6) Seek to transcend current thinking; (7) Take a multi-faceted approach to understand and shape change; (8) Acknowledge the value of alternative roles of researchers; (9) Encourage second-order experimentation; and (10) Be reflexive. Joi...
Formalised knowledge systems, including universities and research institutes, are important for c... more Formalised knowledge systems, including universities and research institutes, are important for contemporary societies. They are, however, also arguably failing humanity when their impact is measured against the level of progress being made in stimulating the societal changes needed to address challenges like climate change. In this research we used a novel futures-oriented and participatory approach that asked what future envisioned knowledge systems might need to look like and how we might get there. Findings suggest that envisioned future systems will need to be much more collaborative, open, diverse, egalitarian, and able to work with values and systemic issues. They will also need to go beyond producing knowledge about our world to generating wisdom about how to act within it. To get to envisioned systems we will need to rapidly scale methodological innova- tions, connect innovators, and creatively accelerate learning about working with intractable challenges. We will also need to create new funding schemes, a global knowledge commons, and challenge deeply held assumptions. To genuinely be a creative force in supporting longevity of human and non-human life on our planet, the shift in knowledge systems will probably need to be at the scale of the enlightenment and speed of the scientific and technological revolution accompanying the second World War. This will require bold and strategic action from governments, scientists, civic society and sustained transformational intent.
The transition from a culture of unsustainability to a culture of sustainability entails a cultur... more The transition from a culture of unsustainability to a culture of sustainability entails a cultural transformation from modern to holistic worldviews and ways of life. This is vital for resolving the failures of modernity and building the structures of a sustainable future. In particular, ecovillages are presented, for one, as demonstration sites for such ways of life that can offer a concrete alternative to the unsustainable culture of modernity, and secondly, as dissemination sites for a new culture that is based on a holistic worldview. This essay shows how sustainability can be understood in terms of culture and why it is vital. A distinction is made between culture as ways of life and worldviews. Particular focus lies on the holistic worldview, which is explained by means of contrasting it the modern culture. Ecovillages are presented as models for a sustainable culture: firstly as demonstration sites for an alternative way of life and, secondly, as dissemination sites for a holistic worldview that forms the basis for this alternative.
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Papers by Tim Strasser