The Enigma of Climate Inaction: Why Are We Doing Nothing (or Almost Nothing) in the Face of Catastrophe?

The Enigma of Climate Inaction explores humanity’s perplexing passivity in the face of the looming climate crisis―despite our having known about it for decades, the fact that we brought it into existence, and the existential threat it poses to our species.

Drawing on cutting-edge insights from cognitive science, anthropology, history, economy, finance, and philosophy, Samama argues that our success in accessing resources has bred an overconfidence in the systems that enable it. By uncovering the roots of our inaction, he moves beyond merely identifying the problem and offers a framework for action. He invites readers to experience a jolt in perspective―one that prompts a re-evaluation of our relationship with nature and our sense of responsibility.

This powerful and innovative examination of the cognitive and societal blind spots that obstruct urgent climate action and solutions provided will be especially valuable for professionals in environmental policy, the social sciences and humanities, and finance.

Frédéric Samama, PhD in Economics and MPhil in Philosophy, is a pioneer of green finance. He created the first mainstream low-carbon equity indices and launched what was at that time the world’s largest green bond fund to finance green infrastructure in emerging markets. He co-initiated the first coalition of investors committed to climate action, representing the entire financial sector at COP21. He also co-edited Sovereign Wealth Funds and Long-Term Investing with Patrick Bolton and Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz, and has testified before the US Senate on climate finance. He is an adjunct professor at Columbia University and Sciences Po.