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Images of the Present and Possible: Analyzing the Climate Movement Through Its Utopias

Author

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  • Teppo Eskelinen

    (University of Eastern Finland, Finland)

  • Keijo Lakkala

    (University of Lapland, Finland)

Abstract

The article analyzes utopian thinking within the current climate movement, with a particular focus on the Finnish movement, and develops analysis of contemporary society through utopias. Empirically, it is based on material collected in the context of a protest week called ‘Utopia rebellion’, in Helsinki in 2022. We use material such as statements, blog posts, and social media content produced by climate activists, as they aimed to form an idea of utopian society beyond their demands on climate policy. We argue that in order to understand any utopian vision properly, one needs to understand not only how it conceptualizes the ideal society, but also how it (implicitly) interprets the nature and problems of the existing one, and the function of utopias. From this starting point, we develop an analysis of the movement by looking at its utopias, conceptions of the present, and uses of utopias. In the image of the movement formed this way, the key components emerging from the analyses are related to redefinitions of work, reconnecting with one’s community, and the possibilities of identities to flourish.

Suggested Citation

  • Teppo Eskelinen & Keijo Lakkala, 2025. "Images of the Present and Possible: Analyzing the Climate Movement Through Its Utopias," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 30(2), pages 398-415, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socres:v:30:y:2025:i:2:p:398-415
    DOI: 10.1177/13607804241257745
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Diana Stuart, 2022. "Tensions between individual and system change in the climate movement: an analysis of Extinction Rebellion," New Political Economy, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 27(5), pages 806-819, September.
    2. Shelley Boulianne & Mireille Lalancette & David Ilkiw, 2020. "“School Strike 4 Climate”: Social Media and the International Youth Protest on Climate Change," Media and Communication, Cogitatio Press, vol. 8(2), pages 208-218.
    3. Shelley Boulianne & Mireille Lalancette & David Ilkiw, 2020. "“School Strike 4 Climate”: Social Media and the International Youth Protest on Climate Change," Media and Communication, Cogitatio Press, vol. 8(2), pages 208-218.
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