Confronting Our Consumerism: Values for a sustainable future

Human consumption and economic growth are putting increased pressure on the Earth; our actions and policies are leading to climate disruption, loss of biodiversity, pollution, and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources.

We also know that consumption and economic growth do not bring happiness. How can we bring about cultural change to deliver genuine human well being?

This public lecture and panel discussion confronts the contribution of consumer culture to the world’s environmental and social challenges. It examines how human values underpin these challenges, and how we can work with values to find pathways towards sustainable futures.

To explore these questions, ISF is very pleased to host Professor Tim Kasser from Knox College, Illinois as the keynote speaker at this event. Prof Kasser is at the forefront of research on the role of human values and materialism in environmental challenges. He will use psychological theory and research to show how contemporary culture’s focus on materialistic values and consumerism must be confronted if humans are to create a sustainable future. Prof Kasser will present a strategic approach that provides lifestyle and policy alternatives that would not only be positive for the planet, but would promote people’s wellbeing and a more civil society.

Tim will be followed by presentations from Dr Chris Riedy from the Institute for Sustainable Futures and Mark Chenery from Common Cause Australia, and then a panel discussion with the audience.

October 7, 2014 Posted by Christina Macpherson | ACTION | Leave a comment