Fisher believes that increasing climate disasters will mobilize people to demand necessary actions, despite the grim reality of the climate crisis.
Fossil fuel interests have a significant influence on decision-making, blocking systemic changes and promoting incremental policies or denial.
As climate shocks become more frequent and severe, they lead to social conflict and motivate people to take to the streets, creating political pressure for change.
Community and solidarity help mobilize masses and create durable movements by bringing diverse groups together, as seen in the Women's March.
Disruption and repression, often by those in power, can mobilize sympathizers to take action, as seen in the civil rights movement and protests against George Floyd's murder.
Individuals can participate in community resilience programs, such as service corps, to help build and support their communities in the face of climate shocks.
Communities are phasing out natural gas, pressuring banks to stop fossil fuel investments, and working together to rebuild after disasters.
Dana R. Fisher calls herself an "apocalyptic optimist" based on her research as a sociologist of large social movements. Her studies suggest that ever-increasing climate disasters will get people out in the streets demanding the action we need. She breaks down how to cultivate resilience to catastrophe in yourself and your community — and how to rally for change in the face of seemingly intractable problems.