The Priory Street Centre, Priory Street, York YO1 6ET
Thu Apr 9 @ 7.30pm
Free, but donations invited
An American professor who believes that irreversible climate change will end all human life on the planet by the 2030s is to speak in York.
Guy McPherson is professor emeritus of natural resources and ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Arizona.
He says that global warming is already out of control and accelerating – and will lead to mass extinction, including that of humanity, within a generation.
Currently on a European tour – Abrupt climate change and pursuing a life of excellence – his only date in the north of England is at the Priory Street Centre in York on Thursday (April 9).
John Cossham, the organiser of the York event, said Prof McPherson will explain some of the latest research on the increasing number of climatic feedback mechanisms that are coming into play.
Then there will be a question and answer session and discussion.
What Prof McPherson believes
In his 2013 book, Going Dark Prof McPherson wrote that he previously believed “complete collapse of the world’s industrial economy” would reduce global warming and “allow our species to persist a few more generations”.
Not only are the lights about to go out on industrial civilisation but the lights are about to go out on our species.
– Guy McPherson
But there is a positive element to his talk in York. John Cossham said Prof McPherson’s vision of ‘living a life of excellence’ “incorporates much that’s good about being human, about our potential to enrich each others lives, to enjoy what’s wonderful about being alive”.
John added:
Whatever the next few decades have in store for our species, we should really be trying to live in ways which enhance all that’s good about humanity, such as our ability to empathise, to be kind to one another and share resources fairly.
Guy’s message is both frightening and heart-warming. I’m really looking forward to hearing what he has to say.
John said he recognised that people will be troubled by the idea scientists have evidence that humanity may be made extinct within their lifetimes.
“We have made plans to offer support directly after the talk, and in a separate meeting one week afterwards,” he said.