The lecture traces some of the complex, contested histories of damming and de-damming movements, from the Alta/Álttáeatnu to the Klamath River in the Pacific West, by way of the Elwha River in Washington State, the Mutehekau Shipu (Magpie River) in Nitassinan (north-east Québec), and the Derwent River in England.
It engages with Arne Næss’s own river-radicalisation as both activist and philosopher, and considers the roles of storytelling, music and art in driving river-activism (or what Næss called ‘beautiful acts’) and, by extension, wider global currents of change.
The lecture’s form may be somewhat unconventional, as it seeks to allow flowing freshwater at least partial agency in shaping what is said, thought and done.
About Macfarlane
Robert Macfarlane has shaped today’s environmental humanities through his research, his creative and artistic work, and his role as a mentor. He is a Fellow of Emmanuel College and Professor of Literature and Environmental Humanities at the University of Cambridge. His research brings together geography, literature, philosophy, and activism, and his influence has helped shape contemporary discussions of environmental justice, “deep time”, and our responsibilities toward future generations.
Programme
- Opening music: Arne Næss Fanfare. Composed by Lasse Thoresen, performed by Trine Knutsen.
- Welcome and opening remarks by Karen Victoria Lykke, Programme Director, Arne Næss Programme. Introduction of the Arne Næss Chair 2026.
- The Arne Næss Lecture 2026 by Robert Macfarlane.
- Young Researchers’ Dialogue. Two graduate students (Master’s level) respond to the lecture and pose questions to the Chair.
- Response and dialogue with Robert Macfarlane.
- Questions and discussion with the audience.
Participate
The event is free and open to all.
Welcome!
