July 9, 2012
In Mander's provocative newest, the environmentalist, social critic, and author of 1977's Four Arguments for the Elimination of Television predicts the impending failure of the capitalist "experiment," one based on infinite expansion and unable to meet the challenges of climate change, peak oil, finite resources, and a rising global population. Mander lambasts the "intrinsic amorality" of capitalism, arguing that its focus on amassing wealth at any cost has abetted the rise of the incredibly lucrative military-industrial complex, and the practice of "so-called democratic governmentsâ¦catering to and facilitating the interests of the ultra-rich." Arguing that "cooperation must replace competition," Mander's concerns transcend party lines and established ideologies. As such, he closes with a compelling discussion of four ideas that he believes might blaze a trail away from capitalism and toward sustainable economic models: he suggests a refocusing on the limits of our planet, an emphasis on localization (as opposed to globalization), improved corporate structures, and a dismissal of the current black-and-white notion of capitalism vs. socialism. Refreshing and informative, these papers are a cogent rally cry and eloquent assessment of America'sâand the world'sâcurrent predicament, dismal prospects, and hope for a way out.