University of Twente Student Theses
The social aspect of reading climate fiction : an exploration of patterns in interviews on cli-fi
Irion, M.F. (2022) The social aspect of reading climate fiction : an exploration of patterns in interviews on cli-fi.
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| Abstract: | How people experience reading climate fiction books becomes increasingly relevant for researchers with the progression of global warming. However, the social aspect of this experience has not been the focus of investigation yet. Based on semi-structured interviews, the present bachelor thesis examines how readers discuss the social context of reading cli-fi. The transcripts were analysed with the thematic analysis approach. Starting already with the decision to read cli-fi, social factors including recommendations from close others and public opinions were influential, according to the participants. Next, cli-fi was perceived as an educational tool, not only for personal gain of knowledge, but also as a conversation starter for insightful discussions with others. Such discussions were furthermore perceived as more personal and thus meaningful for the interviewees. The personal aspect of reading cli-fi was described to result from identification with and empathy for the fictional characters. Such emotional involvement was perceived to be a major advantage of cli-fi, as it allows for emotional involvement in the subject of climate change. Furthermore, cli-fi was discussed in the context of reflections on society and politics. Responsibility for climate change was mainly attributed to powerful decision makers and several participants spoke of social activism. Activism groups and other groups that were characterised by a common interest in climate change were furthermore positively associated with coping and a sense of belongingness. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology BSc (56604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/91614 |
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