Bruce Jennings

Bruce Jennings is a philosopher, ethicist, teacher, and writer with a remarkable career dedicated to non-profit research institutes focused on critical issues in health care, life sciences, environmental and ecological policies, and social justice. His profound interest in the ethical dimensions of these domains has been a driving force throughout his professional journey.In the realm of health care, Bruce's focus has been on end-of-life care, an area that became deeply personal when his wife of 48 years faced a challenging battle with chronic and terminal illness. This firsthand experience as a caregiver and the emotional journey of impending loss, bereavement, and loneliness inspired him to express his thoughts and emotions through poetry. The result was his book of poetry entitled "What I Would Not Part With," which artfully captures the convergence of his personal life, academic expertise, and involvement in health care and climate change policy.Bruce's moral imagination and ideals are rooted in a profound critique of contemporary globalization's central assumptions, particularly the pursuit of endless growth and material consumption. He firmly believes that challenging these assumptions is a prerequisite for ushering in ethical critique and nurturing an ecological imagination. His perspective underscores the urgent need to abandon the unsustainable patterns of human extraction and dominance over nature, recognizing that true liberation lies in coexistence and balance with the natural world.A major theme in Bruce's work is the call for a shift in societal values and practices. He advocates for embracing an ecological self, wherein individuals view themselves as part of a greater whole rather than separate entities engaged in extractive behaviour. This shift is interconnected with cultivating relational liberty, a form of freedom that moves away from self-centred and exploitative actions, fostering a society built on mutual care and respect.Moreover, Bruce emphasizes the importance of deliberation as a form of governance, transcending the transactional nature of bargaining. He advocates for a dialogic judgment that encourages open and honest communication, promoting collective reasoning and collaborative decision-making that considers the well-being of all involved.Central to Bruce's vision is the concept of practising trusteeship instead of consumerism, encouraging a shift from a mindset of possessiveness and exploitation to one of stewardship and responsible custodianship. This transformation will lead to a new way of living, where individuals and communities cherish the natural world and work together in solidarity to preserve the planet for future generations.Bruce Jennings passionately believes that achieving these objectives is crucial for humanity's potential to flourish harmoniously with the Earth. He encourages intellectuals and individuals alike to engage in conceptual work that aligns with these values and to actively participate in civic practices of care and solidarity. For Bruce, this is not just a vision; it is a call to action—an urgent collective responsibility to pave the way towards a more ethical, just, and sustainable future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.