The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast 213. Don't Climate Panic - An Investigation into The Proposed Solutions to Climate Change
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Dec 30, 2021 
In this enlightening discussion, environmentalist Michael Shellenberger, known for his critiques of apocalyptic environmentalism, dives deep into the climate change narrative. He emphasizes a balanced view, suggesting that while climate change is real, it's not the impending doom often portrayed. The conversation explores the relationship between poverty reduction and environmental sustainability, the mental health impacts of climate anxiety, and the need for practical, innovative solutions over fear-based ideologies.
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Environmentalism and Mental Health
- Apocalyptic environmentalism negatively impacts mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and nightmares in children.
- Michael Shellenberger has always viewed this alarmism as problematic for environmentalism and overall well-being.
Depression and Environmentalism
- Jordan Peterson suggests that apocalyptic thinking is harder to escape when depressed, making it difficult to separate political beliefs from emotional states.
- He also suspects environmentalism is contaminated with historical shame, guilt, and anti-humanism.
Negative Narratives
- Michael Shellenberger notes that the narratives of environmentalism mirror the thought patterns of depressed individuals.
- He highlights how both focus on negativity: humans are terrible, the world is awful, and the future is bleak.
