Speeding into Oblivion: The Role ‘SUV’ Subjects in the Disavowal of Interdependency

Keywords: public space, privatization, critical geography, fear, environmentalism, climate change
Abstract Type: Virtual Paper Abstract

Abstract

This critical geography paper argues the global interdependency necessary for climate justice is impeded by a new subject produced through hyperprivitization. My purpose in this work is to better understand the marginalization of climate justice in the Global North. I begin my theoretical approach with Don Mitchell’s work on ‘SUV citizenship’ (2005). Mitchell outlines how changing property relations under neoliberalism result in a new political-juridical subject who exists in a privatized bubble of space to prevent ‘collisions’ from unwanted stimuli, even when traversing public space. I then consider the relevance of this construct for understanding Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s) in the United Kingdom. PSPO’s, which aim to ensure the enjoyment of public spaces by ‘the public’ without nuisance or harm, are, in practice, utilized to restrict and homogenize behaviors and bodies. Using fear as a critical lens (Bauman 2006, Davis 1998) I take PSPO’s as an example of Mitchell’s ‘right to safe passage’ and consider how space designed for ‘safety’ and ‘security’ results in subjects who find freedom in total societal disengagement. Focusing on freedom I turn to Wendy Brown’s work on the subject of dethroned privilege, amidst a world without meaning, who experiences masochistic pleasure in destroying the possibility of a future. (2019) Connecting this with Mitchell’s ‘SUV-citizen’, who pursues individualized insulation to collectively destructive ends (like an SUV-driver), the paper concludes by arguing that it is fear—fear of recognizing and engaging with our global interdependency —that is preventing meaningful engagement with climate justice.