In this episode of 5Talks, climate scientist Kate Marvel reveals why physics alone won’t help us address the realities of a changing world. We need to lean into our emotions too.
“As scientists we don’t make ourselves more credible when we pretend we don’t feel anything. That doesn’t make us more believable, that makes us liars,” says Kate Marvel. The former astrophysicist spends her time testing climate models to better understand the processes at play on our planet and the effects of our actions on its systems.
In her new book, Human Nature: she turns away from hard science to trace her response to the climate crisis in nine different emotions, starting with wonder, going through fear and anger and ending with hope and love in what is ultimately an intimate and urgent call to action. Because, as a scientist, she’s come to realize that facts are only part of the story.
“Climate models can only see the worst in us. But they can’t see the choices we make. There are limits to how far physics can take you,” she says.
Discover her story here.
We spoke to Kate Marvel at environmental think tank Futerra’s Solutions House, a space for optimism and action, at Climate Week 2025.
Cover star Madame Gandhi on the sounds of the Antarctic, free climber Alex Honnold reveals his biggest challenge yet, actor Rainn Wilson embraces his soulful side and much much more!
