Writer provokes eco-friendly discussion

Kate Seaholm, For the Review

A nature writer and climate activist tackled important questions about our moral obligation to the future of our planet at her library reading on April 6 in the Austin Reading room.

Professor of Philosophy from Oregon State University, Kathleen Dean Moore, read from her latest book, “Great Tide Rising,” which addresses questions about climate change.

Moore began by asking the most commonly asked question: “Why do I have the obligation to do anything?”

She concluded that there’s so much of Earth left to save for generations to come.

By the time today’s children are middle aged, Earth’s life support systems will be irreversibly damaged.

The next question Moore addressed was: “What do you love too much to lose?” She reflected on great changes in history and how they were all based on moral principles.

Nothing changes without people standing up for what they think is right.

Finally, the question was asked if we have met the enemy, and is it us? Moore said that this question is a logical fallacy.

The enemy is us, as long as “us” refers to everyone.

Consumers should cut their use of fossil fuels, but corporate companies need to stop short cutting the system and drilling in places that consumers did not ask for.

Moore said, “We have met the enemy and I will do anything to make sure it isn’t me.”