War, race and sustainability: metaphorical frames for climate change

Francesca Ervas;Zsuzsanna Schnell

2025-01-01

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Abstract

The paper considers two frequently used metaphors in talking and thinking about climate change: the WAR metaphor and the RACE metaphor. The paper explores the effects of these metaphors on our understanding of climate change, highlighting their positive communicative aspects, as well as their limitations and potential negative implications in addressing the environmental issues, leading to an emphasis on competition rather than collaboration. To address these limitations, the paper suggests revitalizing the sustain metaphor as a more effective way to conceptualize climate change. This metaphor focuses on Sustaining the Earth and the ecosystem, rather than overcoming an enemy or competing in a race. It can shift our attention towards long-term sustainability and interdependence of all living organisms, better presenting the complex and interconnected nature of the climate change phenomenon.