Against Future Generations

Abstract Future generations are invoked in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and increasingly often climate debate, as a locus of responsibility for present generations. In this article, I argue against framing. look at historical context rhetorical effects generational frame both future generations, dwelling particular guiding conceptions sacrifice legacy well construction scenarios practice discounting. conclude that appeal to obfuscates, rendering series critical boundaries diffuse, and, doing so, abjures concrete urgent existing responsibilities towards those alive today same gesture nominally assumes them an abstract unformed future.