Podcast Summary: How to Gain Perspective in a Climate Crisis (w/ David Finnigan)
Podcast Information:
- Title: How to Be a Better Human
- Host: Chris Duffy (TED)
- Guest: David Finnigan, Playwright and Game Designer
- Episode Release Date: October 28, 2024
Introduction to David Finnigan and His Work
In this episode, host Chris Duffy engages in a profound conversation with playwright and game designer David Finnigan. David is renowned for his satirical approach to climate change, particularly through his provocative play titled Kill Climate Deniers. The episode delves into David's creative process, the backlash his work received, and the broader implications of climate denial in society.
Overview of "Kill Climate Deniers" Play ([06:58] - [09:32])
David Finnigan introduces his controversial play, Kill Climate Deniers, which he wrote in 2014. The play depicts a hyperbolic scenario where eco-terrorists take over Australia's Parliament House during a Fleetwood Mac concert, demanding an immediate end to climate change. The narrative intensifies as the Australian environment minister retaliates violently against the terrorists.
David Finnegan:
"Kill Climate Deniers was a theatre show that I wrote in 2014, which was about a group of eco terrorists who take over Australia's Parliament House... it's a ridiculous high octane action thriller that kind of placed different political perspectives of the Australian climate debate in the same space."
[06:58]
Controversy and Reactions ([09:32] - [16:39])
The provocative title of the play sparked significant controversy, attracting fierce opposition from right-wing media outlets like the Murdoch press, Breitbart, and Infowars. Accusations ranged from accusing the play of inciting real-life eco-terrorism to provoking hostile reactions from climate deniers.
David Finnegan:
"As soon as people got wind of the title very quickly, inevitably the title attracted a lot of controversy and there was a big right wing blowback... that led to us having to cancel the production."
[08:15]
Facing backlash, David spent the subsequent years finding alternative ways to disseminate his work, including releasing an album with musician Ruben Engel and conducting guerrilla walking tours of Parliament House. Despite initial setbacks, Kill Climate Deniers eventually gained traction, culminating in its production by the Griffin Theatre in Sydney in 2018 and numerous subsequent performances worldwide.
David Finnegan:
"Since then it's gone on. It's been about 15, 20 productions in cities worldwide. So it's been extremely successful for a kind of indie production and had a real unexpected life..."
[09:32]
Insights on Climate Denial and Understanding ([19:27] - [26:51])
David explores the psychological underpinnings of climate denial, emphasizing that many deniers deeply understand the consequences of climate science but choose to reject it to avoid facing uncomfortable truths.
David Finnegan:
"Climate deniers understand the consequences of the science, so they don't accept the science. They know what it means if it's true, so they won't allow it to be true."
[19:27]
He introduces the concept of "soft climate deniers"—individuals who accept climate science but fail to internalize its long-term implications, leading to inaction. David stresses the importance of practical steps such as evaluating one's living situation, career choices, and personal carbon footprint to better align actions with climate realities.
David Finnegan:
"The climate system is on a 30 to 50 year lag. We're putting in greenhouse gases into the atmosphere that are going to really see their impacts in the second half of the century."
[24:56]
Engaging with Opposing Viewpoints and Societal Cohesion ([26:51] - [29:38])
Chris and David discuss the critical need for engaging with those who hold opposing views on climate change to prevent societal fragmentation. David shares his experience of facing threats and harassment from climate deniers, highlighting the emotional turmoil such interactions can cause.
David Finnegan:
"The individual threats are not the sort of... enormous amount of anger that was directed at me... it's no good. You don't want that."
[20:45]
Despite the challenges, David advocates for understanding and articulating the perspectives of climate deniers to bridge divides and foster meaningful conversations. He believes that by empathizing with opponents, artists and individuals can contribute to societal resilience in the face of climate crises.
David Finnegan:
"The goal that you have is to always be able to articulate your opponent's perspective better than they could themselves."
[23:55]
Advice for Artists and Community Building ([38:03] - [41:28])
David provides invaluable advice for artists interested in addressing climate change through their work. He emphasizes the importance of finding a specific niche and becoming an expert in that area to create unique and impactful art.
David Finnegan:
"Find a niche and then find the niche of that niche and then go deeper still and become the world expert in one tiny thing."
[38:13]
He also highlights the significance of being part of creative scenes and communities, which foster collaboration and innovation. By engaging with peers and supporting independent work, artists can develop distinctive voices that resonate more profoundly with audiences.
David Finnegan:
"The best work is coming out of scenes. It's coming out of artists who are responding to their peers and making work in response to the work around them."
[40:05]
Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with Chris expressing his admiration for David's work and the enlightening conversation they shared. David reiterates his appreciation and underscores the importance of continuous dialogue and community support in combating climate change through art.
Chris Duffy:
"David, it sincerely has been such a pleasure talking to you. I know I said this before, but I'm such a fan of your work and this was such a great conversation. Thank you so much for being on the show."
[41:28]
David Finnegan:
"Thanks so much Chris. Really appreciate it."
[41:36]
Key Takeaways:
- Art as a Catalyst: David Finnigan's work exemplifies how art can provoke discussion and challenge societal norms, even in the face of significant backlash.
- Understanding Denial: Recognizing that climate denials often stem from a deep-seated understanding of potential consequences provides a pathway to more empathetic and effective dialogues.
- Community and Niche Expertise: Building and participating in creative communities, while honing expertise in specific areas, can lead to more impactful and innovative art.
- Practical Actions: Individuals are encouraged to assess and adjust their lifestyles, support meaningful causes, and engage in conversations to contribute to climate resilience.
Notable Quotes:
-
David Finnegan:
"Climate deniers understand the consequences of the science, so they don't accept the science. They know what it means if it's true, so they won't allow it to be true."
[19:27] -
David Finnegan:
"Find a niche and then find the niche of that niche and then go deeper still and become the world expert in one tiny thing."
[38:13] -
Chris Duffy:
"If there's someone who's listening, who's thinking like, I'm an artist and I want to make art about climate change, what advice would you give them?"
[38:03]
Final Thoughts: This episode of How to Be a Better Human offers a nuanced exploration of climate change discourse through the lens of art and personal responsibility. David Finnigan's experiences underscore the complexities of addressing climate denial and the pivotal role of creative expression in fostering understanding and societal resilience.