Emeritus Professor Paul Hoggett

Paul Hoggett is Emeritus Professor of Social Policy at the University of the West of England, as well as an active psychotherapist and co-founder of the Climate Psychology Alliance. Author of "Paradise Lost," Hoggett has been a pioneering figure in the development of psychosocial studies in UK universities. His notable works include "Politics, Identity and Emotion," a landmark contribution to the field. Alongside his academic career, he continues to practice as a psychotherapist in Bristol.

Episode Summary

In this episode, we engaged in a profound conversation with Paul Hoggett about psychological responses to the climate crisis, the relationship between humans and nature, and their political implications. Hoggett analyzed three fundamental psychological reactions people have when confronting the reality of climate change: denial, disavowal, and nihilism.

We discussed the central thesis of Hoggett's book "Paradise Lost," which examines modern civilization's separation from nature and the three fundamental disconnections this has created:

* Human separation from nature

* Human alienation from our own mortal, creaturely nature

* Human disconnection from one another

Our conversation also addressed the emotional challenges faced by climate activists, the role of national versus global strategies, the issue of climate refugees, and the connections between climate change and inequality.

This episode offers a valuable perspective for understanding the psychological dimensions of the climate crisis and confronting the defense mechanisms we develop in response to it. Hoggett's analysis helps us understand not only environmental issues but also today's political polarization and social fragmentation.

Paul Hoggett's book "Paradise Lost" serves as an important resource for those seeking to understand human psychology in the face of the climate crisis.

Keywords:climate crisis, Paul Hoggett, disavowal, denial, nihilism, climate psychology, authority, democracy, emotional responses, environmental movement

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