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IC7: Are you a wizard or a prophet?

IC7: Are you a wizard or a prophet?

Update: 2025-11-05
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Description

This week, we discuss the dichotomy between two archetypes in environmental discourse: the Wizard, who believes in technological solutions, and the Prophet, who emphasises limits and lifestyle changes. The framework was coined by America journalist and author Charles C. Mann. We discuss why it is helpful to have a small framework as part of the discourse, the implications of each archetype, the need for balance, and the complexities of addressing climate change. The Wizard and the Prophet discussion highlights the importance of understanding different perspectives.


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Sources



  • Mann, Charles C. (January 2018). The Wizard and the Prophet: Two Remarkable Scientists and Their Dueling Visions to Shape Tomorrow's World. New York: Knopf. ISBN 978-0-307-96169-3.

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IC7: Are you a wizard or a prophet?

IC7: Are you a wizard or a prophet?

Kaisa Virolainen & Jan Kleine