Ecological awareness refers to a heightened sensitivity and understanding towards environmental issues and their impact on ecosystems and human life. The statement suggests that this consciousness carries with it certain characteristics reminiscent of attitudes prevalent during the 1970s, a period marked by significant environmental movements and concerns.
The quote implies a connection between contemporary ecological consciousness and earlier environmental activism rooted in the cultural and social milieu of the 1970s. It hints at how today’s eco-awareness might echo or even draw from those historical sentiments. The 1970s were pivotal for the rise of environmental awareness, with significant legislative actions like the U.S. Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act being enacted in response to growing public concern about pollution and resource depletion. By linking current ecological consciousness to this era, Morton might be suggesting a continuity or cyclical nature in how society responds to environmental challenges over time.
Timothy Morton is an influential scholar known for his work in ecology, philosophy, and cultural theory. He teaches at several prestigious universities and has authored numerous books that explore the intersection of human culture and environmental issues. His writings often challenge traditional notions about nature and humanity's role within it, contributing significantly to contemporary discussions on climate change, sustainability, and ecological thought.