The polar bears won't cut it
The key to combating environmental issues
🌲 In recent years, coverage on global and environmental issues has dwindled. A decrease of sustainability recognition in the media has caused public disinterest. In the BBC article “Are we tired of talking about climate change?”, several political scientists address this issue, discussing why the public may be “sick” of environmental activism. Psychologist Robert Grifford states that publicized effects, such as damage to polar bear habitats, may not be “not close enough to our lives.” He argues that humans tend to interpret information based on their own interests, introducing the idea that direct consequences will instigate greater change. Instead of highlighting natural impacts, it may be more successful to connect global issues on a personal level.
An example of this approach is the publicized poem “I Long to be King” by Dr. Zhao Xiaogang. Unlike most activists, Xiaogang reaches his audience through art, and focuses his message on the human consequences brought on by air pollution. The piece praises smog from lung cancer’s perspective, demonstrating the strength of the disease and the damage it may cause. From the viewpoint of a cancerous cell, Xiaogang writes, “My people crawl in your organs and body/Holding the rights for life or death…” Through connecting a global issue with a human danger, Xiaogang provides direct and personal motivation to act on air quality.
Unsurprisingly, this new method of activism has proved to be a major success. In less than two days, the poem has gone viral, shared by thousands and supported by the New York Times.
Both Grifford’s statement and the success of Xiaogang’s work demonstrate that a new take on activism is both possible and beneficial. The artistic and personal components of “I Long to Be King” may be the key in instigating global change. 🌲
Read the poem here: http://journal.publications.chestnet.org/article.aspx?articleid=2565057
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