18th Jun 2024 Gemini 1.5 Pro
This summary explores a conversation between Bayo Akomolafe, a poet and philosopher, and Matthew Monaghan, host of the podcast "The Regeneration Will Be Funded." The discussion centers on finding new ways to respond to the current ecological crisis, moving beyond traditional approaches that Akomolafe argues often perpetuate the very problems they seek to solve. Akomolafe advocates for embracing uncertainty, recognizing our interconnectedness with the natural world, and finding innovative solutions that challenge the dominant paradigm of human exceptionalism.
Akomolafe posits that the conventional ways we address crises are often embedded within the very systems that created those crises, thus perpetuating the problems. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of humans and the environment, suggesting that human actions are inseparable from the ecosystems they inhabit. Akomolafe uses the example of microplastics found in remote caves, untouched by humans for decades, to illustrate this point. He advocates for a shift in perspective, recognizing that humans are not separate from the planet but rather an integral part of it. This understanding challenges the notion of human exceptionalism and calls for a more holistic approach to problem-solving.
When confronted with the urgency of the ecological crisis and the seemingly slow pace of change, Akomolafe cautions against equating speed with effectiveness. He argues that simply accelerating existing solutions might not lead to genuine transformation. Instead, he proposes embracing "transversal crossings" – solutions that fundamentally challenge the existing paradigm.
So when I speak about slowing down, I'm not speaking about this impoverished parallelism. I'm speaking about transversal crossings, right? Something that breaks through the parallelism altogether.
He emphasizes that the solutions needed will likely emerge from a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness with the natural world, a space where new possibilities and alliances can form.
Akomolafe views animism as a framework that moves beyond human-centered perspectives. He acknowledges the problematic history of the term, particularly its use in creating a false dichotomy between the "modern" and the "primitive." However, he reclaims the concept, suggesting that this perceived primitiveness actually represents a profound understanding of our interconnectedness with the natural world.
Well, I often use the word animism as post-humanism writ large. And, you know, the origins, the ethnographic, archaeological, anthropological origins of the word animism are troubling. And, you know, especially in their racialized distinction of the modern and the animistic, the primitive, you know, we're reclaiming that in a sense and saying, well, this supposed primitiveness is actually a form of intelligence.
He argues that recognizing the agency and interconnectedness of all living and non-living entities is crucial for developing effective responses to the ecological crisis. This perspective challenges the notion of human dominance over nature and calls for a more equitable and respectful relationship with the planet.
Akomolafe critiques the concept of the Anthropocene, arguing that while it effectively highlights the impact of human activities on the planet, it fails to adequately address the historical context and root causes of the ecological crisis. He proposes the term "Afro-cene" as an alternative framework. While acknowledging the significant role of human actions, the Afro-cene emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the need for solutions that recognize and address historical injustices and systemic inequalities.
The Afro scene is a cosmological correction to that and saying, well, this trouble is an opportunity, not in the entrepreneurial sense of an opportunity, but, but at this trouble is introducing us to the vastness of our bodies, right?
Akomolafe's concept of the Afro-cene challenges us to move beyond simply acknowledging human impact and instead delve into the complex historical and systemic factors that have led to the current crisis, particularly those rooted in colonialism and exploitation.
Akomolafe challenges the simplistic understanding of "whiteness" as merely a skin color. He argues that "whiteness" is a complex, evolving social construct that has far-reaching implications for how we perceive and interact with the world. He emphasizes that "whiteness" is not limited to individuals but operates as a broader system of thought and action that perpetuates hierarchies and inequalities.
There are fascinating studies of how Italians became white, right? Or how the Irish became white, right? At some point, Italians were ranked lower than black people. I mean, in the United States, right? This becoming white suggests that whiteness is not reducible to phenotypic, phenotypical appearances, right? It's not, it's not skin color. There's something that exceeds presentable, presentability or appearance that is at work here.
He uses the Norse myth of Baldur to illustrate how "whiteness" functions – attempting to control and suppress the wildness and interconnectedness of the natural world to create a sense of order and stability for a privileged few.
Akomolafe suggests that true transformation arises from embracing the "cracks" in the existing system – those moments of disruption and uncertainty where new possibilities can emerge. He draws a parallel to the concept of "syncopation" in music, where emphasizing the off-beat creates unexpected variations and rhythms. He argues that embracing the "monstrous" – those aspects of reality that defy categorization and disrupt established norms – is crucial for fostering genuine change.
Cracks are not guarantees. They’re not utopian projects. They're just variations in the major beat, disruptive events. And maybe our work is to follow them as far as we can without guarantee that we will arrive anywhere.
He acknowledges the inherent uncertainty in this approach, emphasizing that there are no guarantees of success. However, he believes that leaning into this uncertainty, embracing the unknown, and remaining open to unexpected possibilities is essential for navigating the complexities of the current moment. He encourages experimentation, acknowledging that even seemingly small acts of disruption can have far-reaching consequences, potentially leading to significant shifts in the dominant paradigm.
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