Gli storici e l’Antropocene: narrazioni, periodizzazioni, dibattiti

Since its introduction in 2000, the concept of “Anthropocene” has become a trending topic debated in various disciplines, including history. Starting from the ideas recently advanced on the topic by Amitav Ghosh, this article explores the main debates and narratives around the Anthropocene, both in general and with a focus on the historical approaches. There are at least three methodological challenges proposed to historians by the Anthropocene debate: that of the relationship with other disciplines (especially earth system sciences); that of the scales and subjects of analysis; and that of the forms through which reflecting upon this matter.

Historians and the Anthropocene: narratives, periodizations, debates. Since its introduction in 2000, the concept of “Anthropocene” has become a trending topic debated in various disciplines, including history. Starting from the ideas recently advanced on the topic by Amitav Ghosh, this article explores the main debates and narratives around the Anthropocene, both in general and with a focus on the historical approaches. There are at least three methodological challenges proposed to historians by the Anthropocene debate: that of the relationship with other disciplines (especially earth system sciences); that of the scales and subjects of analysis; and that of the forms through which reflecting upon this matter