On being a radical
You probably recognize this symbol, though you might have forgotten its name: √ When I write the symbol on the whiteboard in a class, and ask what it is, the response is invariable: "The square root." I respond, "Yes, its…
Toward an Economy of Earth
We need to develop a new economy because the current version is not working. The industrial economy is destroying every aspect of the living planet. And, as it turns out, we need a living planet for our own survival. In…
Comedian Louis CK comments on civilization
Louis CK's hysterically funny commentary on civilization is presented without further comment.
Like an Elevator When the Cable Breaks
According to Mark Twain, "civilization is the limitless multiplication of unnecessary necessities." It seems western civilization is just about done with the mindless multiplication of anything, much less unnecessary nonsense. It's too late for a fast collapse of the industrial…
The Ends of the Earth
How far will we go to secure energy? Clearly, to the ends of the Earth. And perhaps even to the end of the (living) world. Judging from their actions, most people I know are more to committed maintaining their imperial…
Abandoning a dream
I was among the final baby boomers born in the United States. Along with my entire generation, I owe the world an apology. My generation abandoned a worthy dream, and it will cost all of us, but nobody more than civilized members of industrial society.
Linking the Past with the Present: Resources, Land Use, and the Collapse of Civilizations
When man interferes with the Tao,
the sky becomes filthy,
the earth becomes depleted,
the equilibrium crumbles
creatures become extinct
(Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching, ca. 550 BCE)
the sky becomes filthy,
the earth becomes depleted,
the equilibrium crumbles
creatures become extinct
(Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching, ca. 550 BCE)