Earth history and human history have converged in the Anthropocene, but scientists and historians rarely work together. This talk describes Thomas’ recent experiences working with geologists and Earth System scientists. After defining "Anthropocene," Thomas will discuss how history--particularly the history of early modern Japan--might provide clues for building more resilient societies, ones based not on modernity’s promises of freedom and growth but on more modest hopes for sustainability with decency.
About the Speaker
Julia Thomas is an associate professor in the Department of History and a faculty fellow of the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies. As an intellectual historian of Japan, Thomas teaches and writes about concepts of nature and the Anthropocene, political thought, historiography, and photography as a political practice.
Thursday, February 11 at 11 a.m. EDT/ Add to Google Calendar
Originally published at asia.nd.edu.