2.3.2.3 Anomie feedback on the Earth system

Anomie can have feedback effects on the Earth system, further destabilising it, through various pathways. For instance, it is likely that if social norms disintegrate, certain pro-social behaviours and collective action that are necessary to slow down the climate crisis may diminish (Schneider and van der Linden, 2023; Lettinga et al., 2020; Constantino et al., 2002). As anomie takes hold, individuals may become disconnected and detached from the importance of environmental concerns, leading to a lack of motivation to engage in actions that mitigate climate change. This absence of collective effort and responsibility can exacerbate Earth system destabilisation, pushing the planet further towards irreversible damage. The breakdown of social cohesion hampers reciprocity and hence the possibilities of finding collaborative solutions that rely on collective efforts, shared responsibility and unified action. Without strong social norms supporting collective action and fostering trust and cooperation, it becomes increasingly challenging to implement effective measures to address accelerating Earth system destabilisation, increasing the likelihood of passing  Earth system tipping points (Thøgersen, 2008; Fehr et al., 2002).

Furthermore, anomie weakens people’s capacity to face the challenge as they battle mental health issues. Studies have shown that mental health problems often inhibit political participation (Burden et al., 2017; Ojeda, 2015) – in climate policy terms, this means there is not enough pressure on policymakers from those most affected to implement effective climate mitigation measures, as, for instance, the young lose trust and disengage (Burns et al., 2008). Or they may feel forced to engage in violent protest behaviour such as eco-terrorism (see also 2.3.3 on potential radicalisation at the fringes of the climate movement). An empirical link has also been found between depression and psychological stress symptoms and susceptibility to conspiracy theories (Green et al., 2023). On intermediate levels, as anomie undermines, for instance, trust (including in science and political institutions and leaders), it disrupts collective action and decision making (Rafaty, 2018; Fairbrother, 2017). Without collective action to mitigate climate change, the Earth system is further destabilised. Anomie hence could lead to collective inertia with devastating long-term consequences (de la Sablonnière and Taylor, 2020).