CLC instructor tackles climate change morality at the peak of ethics

College of Lake County faculty are not only experts in their fields, but also make an impact beyond the classroom. Philosophy Instructor Dr. Benjamin Hole recently showcased his expertise on a global stage at the Rocky Mountains Ethics Congress, one of the most prestigious gatherings for ethical scholars worldwide.

“A lot of famous people in the field are there, people that get taught in my classes,” Hole said. “It’s the most cutting-edge ethics.”

The research Hole presented involves ethical adaptation to climate change. As efforts to prevent climate change and lessen it haven’t worked, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has moved to adapting to the change, which includes adjusting ethical concepts like well-being or human flourishing.

In his research, Hole argues against making big changes to ethical ideas and shows that using traditional environmental ethics carefully can still address the climate crisis. Instead of trying to change ethical theories, researchers and policymakers should focus on using existing ones to take action on climate issues.

Hole’s research was partially inspired by the work his students have done throughout his career. A big part of Hole’s courses are civic engagement projects, where students pursue projects based on their personal ethical interests. Through these projects, he has seen how much of an impact taking action can have on solving problems.

Hole has taught ethics at the college level, both undergraduate and graduate, for over 15 years. He’s been an instructor at community colleges and four-year universities of all sizes. He first experienced teaching while a PhD student as a teaching assistant, and he began teaching as the sole instructor a few years after earning his master’s degree.

Not only has the work of his students positively impacted Hole’s work, but witnessing the diverse and meaningful work they produce has profoundly transformed his perspective on teaching ethics.

“I didn’t like teaching ethics because of how much perceived bad there is in the world,” Hole said. “I grew more hopeful through teaching, seeing the positive things students do with their civic engagement projects.”

For more information about CLC’s philosophy program, visit clcillinois.edu/programs/comdv/philosophy.