220 pages – my copy (paperback; 2004) borrowed from a well stocked library during February 2012
#38 of 2011-12 - #159 of All Time
- 4 nods out of 5 -
The turn of the new century has brought forth a host of texts who are critical of humankind’s work on this planet, as well as predicting a nasty – in many cases, a terrifying – future in we do not change our ways of thinking. David Orr – noted environmentalist – wrote this influential book in the last decade of the twentieth century; and much is in the same vein as the many other texts; but for one thing: Orr’s commitment to and belief in humanity.
Sustainability has become – to many – a buzzword of the modern age; something to pay mere “lip-service” to and nod in agreement, without actually undertaking the demands of what is agreed. Sustainability means a new way of thinking and doing; as Orr notes, a paradigm shift to turn the boat away from this ‘ecological emergency’ and avoid the icebergs that lay ahead.
One might think that such a message would make for dour and pessimistic reading; however, cease such a thought. Orr is a skilful writer who enlightens the mind, rather than overloads it. Earth In Mind is a vast collection of essays, ranging from – as the subtitle promotes – education, environment, and the future of the human race. The book is split into four sections (‘The Problem of Education’, ‘First Principles’, ‘Rethinking Education’, and ‘Destinations’); throughout it all, Mr Orr poses the problems we all face in a changing world, whilst suggesting possible routes forward to gain hope for our survival, as well as recapturing the good things we have lost in our past.
Education must be rethought: not more of the same, but a different, progressive, embracing education is needed. We no longer need managers in offices with their charts, Orr argues, but rather people who connect with the planet, with people, and their communities. The search for the almighty dollar is not the purpose of life: but rather doing our best for ourselves, our generation, and the future generations that have yet to come. This re-design of education will help shape the minds of what would become different, more prepared people to face the challenges of the future.
Out with the old and in with the new. There is a greater emphasis on the locality, of real relationships between us and nature. Yes, much it may sound like the vibe of “free love”, and unfortunately carry much of the negative connotations that surround it (such as the blatant hypocrisy); but need such a message be sniffed at and discarded. Why not open our arms, rethink our situation – if even for a minute – and allow ourselves the option of new and different directions on the road ahead.
So, in conclusion, what is the Worm to do: grab the sandbags, load up the shot-gun, and wait for impending Armageddon? Or perhaps get involved with the change that is needed and help construct the future in which Orr and other advocates stress is possible. The choice is an interesting one. The choice is yours.
Buy it here:
http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Mind-Education-Environment-Prospect/dp/155963295X
Read more about David W. Orr here:
http://www.davidworr.com/
