The Absurdity of Economists' Sacrifice-free Solutions to Climate Change. Issue 3 (1st September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lawlor, Rob
• Is Part Of: Ethics, policy & environment. Volume 19:Issue 3(2016)
• Page Start: 350
• Page End: 365
• Publication Date: 2016-09-01
• Subjects: Environmental ethics -- Periodicals; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; 179.1
• DOI: 10.1080/21550085.2016.1226239
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2155-0085

Abstract

Abstract: John Broome and Duncan Foley have argued that it is a 'misperception' that the 'control of global warming is costly' and that we can make 'sacrifices unnecessary'. There are a number of assumptions that are essential for this idea to work. These assumptions can be challenged. Furthermore, my claim is not merely that the Broome/Foley argument is flawed, and therefore unlikely to be successful. I will argue that it is potentially harmful, leading to harms for the present generation and for future generations.