The Deluge

In this episode of Wicked Problems, host Richard Delevan interviews author Stephen Markley about his book 'The Deluge,' which explores the impacts of the climate crisis on society and politics through a narrative spanning 30 years. The conversation delves into Markley's experiences and challenges while writing the novel, including its eerie real-world parallels and feedback loops in human behavior driven by climate change. They discuss how Markley uses literary fiction to depict complex human responses and radicalism's role in both social movements and reactionary politics. Key elements of 'The Deluge' include ideas like a progressive carbon tax and managed retreat, providing a platform for innovative policy discussions. The conversation also touches on climate-related technology and the importance of addressing unintended consequences, all while maintaining the book's realism. Markley shares insights from his interactions with influential climate figures, inspirational resources, and the critical task of mobilizing for effective climate action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.