In a powerful critique of current global affairs, acclaimed author Amitav Ghosh delivers a sobering message. He states that genuine optimism feels nearly impossible in today's world. Ghosh bases his analysis on themes from his influential book, The Nutmeg's Curse.
Climate Crisis Takes a Backseat to Power Struggles
Ghosh presents a clear argument. He believes environmental emergencies, including climate change, will always be pushed aside. They are consistently relegated beneath intense geopolitical battles for power. This truth is now painfully evident, according to the author. Nations are openly abandoning their green commitments and climate goals. Instead, they are channeling resources to fuel military conflicts and massive rearmament programs.
Targeting U.S. Leadership and the Petro-Dollar
Ghosh directs sharp criticism toward American leadership. He points to figures who publicly dismiss established climate science. This denial, he argues, is not mere ignorance. It is a strategic bid to save the petro-dollar economy. Ghosh describes this as a global economic system utterly dependent on fossil fuels like oil and gas.
This system cannot survive without them, he asserts. More importantly, it actively works to crush any challenges to its dominance. Ghosh provides stark historical examples to support his claim. He cites the cases of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. According to Ghosh, these leaders faced severe consequences, including being toppled, when their actions threatened established oil interests.
A Desperate Fossil Fuel Empire
The author uses vivid imagery to describe the current state of the fossil fuel industry. He paints it as a desperate and faltering empire. This complex is lashing out violently in an attempt to uphold an old, extractive world order. It seeks to maintain control at any cost, even as the planet suffers.
Praise for a New Political Voice
Amidst this grim analysis, Ghosh also highlights a figure who gives him hope. He speaks about New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Ghosh recalls seeing Mamdani as a child and now views him as a significant political talent. He does not hesitate to call the mayor a 'political genius', suggesting that new leadership may offer alternative paths forward.
Amitav Ghosh's commentary offers a piercing look at the intersection of ecology, economy, and power. He frames climate denial not as a simple policy disagreement, but as a defense mechanism for a fragile, fuel-based financial system clinging to survival.
