I have this debate with my parents from time to time. They're big readers of James Kunstler, who seems to advocate for reverting to a primarily agrarian society

I have this debate with my parents from time to time. They're big readers of James Kunstler, who seems to advocate for reverting to a primarily agrarian society as the only sensible and correct response to the impending climate crisis. My argument is primarily that the planet cannot support 7 billion people with 19th century technology, so best case we'd still be looking at a decimation of the human population. Additionally, as you said, people simply won't give up the security and comfort which technology provides for them (for which Kunstler deems them morons). Technology got us into this mess, but only more advanced technology (along with good government policy and cooperation) will get us out of it.