Introduction

We begin the book with a political-philosophical examination of the possibilities for changing our world. In doing so, we integrate the perspectives of economics, ecology, and philosophy (Part 1). This is followed by an exploration of humanity and the concepts with which human action and its effect in the world can be reflected and weighed between alternative courses for action (Part 2). The third part focuses on elementary concepts from the natural sciences that form the basis for understanding the challenges that current environmental problems pose to humanity. The fourth part brings together the different elements of this book by examining essential aspects of the interplay between humanity and nature, and particularly reflecting on the problem of ignorance. In Part 5, when we examine the unity and incompatibility of coexistence between humanity and nature, we indeed encounter limits to human planning and action. However, it also becomes evident that significant transformations are indeed possible.