environmental-advocacy

This introduction by Kim Stanley Robinson outlines the background and collaboration of Isaac Asimov and Frederik Pohl, two prominent science fiction writers and environmental advocates. It details their early association with the Futurians, their political leanings, and their shared concern about ecological crises culminating in their joint effort to write a comprehensive book addressing planetary environmental problems and solutions. The chapter emphasizes their complementary skills and commitment to using their writing to influence public awareness on climate change and biosphere crises.

Chapter 5 traces California's unique identity as a frontier where civilization must redefine itself, symbolized by UCSD's pioneering role in biotechnology. The narrative follows Frank's return to San Diego, his involvement with the struggling biotech firm Torrey Pines Generique, and the scientific collaboration to develop gene algorithms. Concurrently, political efforts by the Khembalung representatives to gain support for climate issues highlight the complexities of advocacy within a gridlocked U.S. Congress, embodied by Senator Phil Chase's pragmatic leadership and the euphemistic language of political refusal.