543625 Second session "Placing the Anthropos in the Anthropocene" by Hoelle and Kawa. This article investigates the Anthropocene, a theorized geological period marked by significant human effect on Earth's ecosystems. The writers explore how our actions, such as industrialization, deforestation, and climate change, have left a visible impact on the globe. They underline the need of recognizing our position as active agents in determining the Earth's destiny. Bonneuil and Fressoz's "The Shock of the Anthropocene" Bonneuil and Fressoz discuss the Anthropocene, including its historical context and ramifications. They contend that the Anthropocene contradicts traditional notions of development and human dominance over nature. By tracing the causes of our ecological disaster, they encourage readers to reconsider our relationship with the world. Genesis 1:28–31 (The OG Environmental Manifesto): In this biblical text, God commands humanity to "be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it." It is a twin mandate: to thrive while also caring for the environment. While sometimes understood as a license to dominate, it also suggests stewardship—a responsibility to safeguard and nurture the environment. Rommetveit et al. ask, "What Can History Teach Us About a European Research Area?" Rommetveit and colleagues examine Europe's research scene from a historical perspective. Understanding previous advancements provides insights into the problems and prospects of joint research. Their work promotes inter-disciplinary conversation and informed decision-making. “The ‘System’ of Automobility” by Urry: Urry's "The 'System' of Automobility" explores the complex relationship between infrastructure, culture, and behavior that underpins our car-centric society. He investigates how cars influence our lives, ranging from daily commutes to global oil usage. It's a scathing assessment of our reliance on autos. Schmitt's "The Nomos of the Earth" Schmitt's work goes into the legal system of Europe. He investigates issues such as sovereignty, territory, and international law. Schmitt illuminates our world's power dynamics by exploring historical precedents. “The Political Ontology of Automobility” by Braun and Randell: Braun and Randell's "The Political Ontology of Automobility" explores automobility's political implications. They investigate how automobiles influence urban design, social identities, and environmental policy. Their work encourages us to think about the broader ramifications of our mobility decisions. “Posthumanist Performativity” by Barad: Barad's paper "Posthumanist Performativity" brings together science and philosophy. She advances the concept of performativity, stressing matter's active role in shaping reality. Barad challenges established concepts of agency, encouraging us to reconsider our knowledge of the material world.