The Green Collar Economy: How One Solution Can Fix Our Two Biggest Problems (2008) - Plot & Excerpts
3.5 stars... The book has a good message but is misguided and in some points not soundly researched. I agree with the author that we as Americans can push a greener agenda, employ solar and wind power, tighten up our houses and be more energy frugal... But his views on nuclear power are predisposed and biased without merit or proper research. I recommend the book for the message and the ideas supported but please maintain an open mind when reading Van's bias of other forms of energy. Author Jones offers a realistic and logical call to arms regarding the rapidly closing window of time left for humanity to solve global warming. Additionally, he lays out a detailed plan of action which if implemented in the U.S., would serve a multi purposeful solution; to the U.S. economy, its long term energy needs and push back substantially against global warming. The Green Collar Economy is really a inclusive manifesto meant to move the country away from its present course of eco-disaster. As in Jared Diamond's "Collapse", Jones dissects the current ravages of modern societies upon the planet and graphically illustrates our fate if these conditions are not eliminated or dramatically altered. Both authors clearly sound the alarm warning humanity that the planet is rapidly approaching the point of being unable to sustain life as we know it. Both authors look to the American people and their government to spearhead the necessary corrective policies which will globally impact and reverse the coming eco-armagedon.I certainly agree with 95% of Jones's arguments and solutions contained in the book, and I do wish him god speed in his work. Unfortunately, I believe the political malfunctioning condition of both the American electorate and the American Federal government make any meaningful change in the status quo recommended in The Green Collar Economy virtually impossible. The book's initial optimism draws from the results of the 2008 election and the ascendancy of Barrack Obama to the White House, and all its corresponding "green" initiatives his administration would bring. The subsequent political "push-back" and the rise of the regressive Tea Party resulting in the loss of Congress in 2010, stands as the prime indicator that the USA is collectively incapable of dealing with ANY serious crisis; global warming notwithstanding. As of this writing unbelievably,POTUS Obama is being seriously challenged by plutocratic poster boy Mitt Romney, representing a European style of economic austerity and old world corporate status quo. A Romney presidency would empower the exact polar opposite of what leadership is needed to remotely address the eco-crisis Sadly I believe the necessary eco-inititives will ultimately have to come from outside the incapable borders of the U.S. as a malfunctioning impotent Washington fails to act on this ever growing calamity. The book itself is very well intentioned and offers both solid and philosophical solutions to an already dire ecological situation....however when cast upon the contemporary political realities within the U.S. it is another edition to be filed alongside Harry Potter and other works of fiction.
What do You think about The Green Collar Economy: How One Solution Can Fix Our Two Biggest Problems (2008)?
and hence starts the process of integrating the green revolution across all socio economic levels.
—Kloe
Well written with a wonderful overview of current and past trends in the environmental movement.
—Stevie
okay, but dude is impressive. didn't finish yet.
—Wilson
Loved the ideas, but it wasn't the best read
—APERALTA
