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Books
"Of the making of books . . ." Over the years we have tried to stay somewhat current with the literature that's relevant to the ideas we are putting forward. Part of the problem is that it's also possible to go backward almost indefinitely, so if you don't see Silent Spring or Walden, it's not because we don't consider them seminal books of environmental consciousness. This list is not in any order of importance. |
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With Our Environment
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Small is Beautiful, by E.F. Schumacher. First published in 1973, this classic of the imperative for a small-scale economic:--"Economics as if People Mattered"-- is still at the top of the growing list of books on sustainable economics. A new edition has recently been published.
Diet for a Small Planet, by Frances Moore Lappe. Thirty years ago this revolutionary book presented eye-opening evidence of the harmful effects of a meat-based diet on the planet. She showed how a more plant-based diet could eliminate hunger, solve environmental problems and improve human health worldwide.
Hope's Edge is a continuation, now with her daughter Anna, of Francis Moore Lappe's mission to awaken us to the perceptions and habits which are destroying our planet's life. She shows us how people all over the world are making life-sustaining choices for themselves, their families, their communities and the planet. The book is a hopeful and sobering look at the challenge before each of us to create a sustainable future.
The Food Revolution, by John Robbins. "Provides both the information and the encouragement we need in order to reclaim the health of our bodies and our planet. Packed with political dynamite, this book will change your life."—Joanna Macy.
The Ecology of Commerce, by Paul Hawken. Paul Hawken knows how to run a business, and this book demonstrates clearly how desperately we need to get our priorities straight, and how, with hope and courage, we can go about doing it.
The Soul of Capitalism: Opening Paths to a Moral Economy, by William Greider. The author examines how the greatest wealth-creation engine in the history of the world is failing most of us, why it must be changed, and how specifically it can be transformed.
Ancient Futures, by Helena Norberg Hodge. Using the small northern Indian state of Ladakh as her model, Norberg-Hodge demonstrates the devastating effects of the global economy on local indigenous cultures.
The Case Against the Global Economy, edited by Jerry Mander and Edward Goldsmith. An indepth look at the risks and failures of the rush to a global economy by 43 leading thinkers from many disciplines, many of whom present alternatives toward bioregional, local communities and economies.
Beyond Growth: The Economics of Sustainable Development, by Herman E. Daly. This iconoclast economist argues that if we are to achieve the goals of sustainable development we must rethink conventional economic theories and give up our ideal of economic growth.
Limits to Growth: The Thirty Year Update, by Donella Meadows, et al. Humanity's consumption of Earth's resources proceeds at an increasingly faster rate than Earth's available resources can accommodate (i.e. its "carrying capacity"). There must be prudent physical growth constraints on consumption in combination with replenishment of the Earth's resources. Otherwise, over time, "the world will experience overshoot and collapse in global resource use and emissions."
Plan B 2.0, by Lester R. Brown. An outline of "a survival strategy for our early 21st century," an approach to dealing with complex environmental stresses and their political and social consequences.
Eco-Economy, by Lester R. Brown. Discusses the depletion of our planet's natural wealth caused by our current economic models, and presents a design for a profitable economy that accurately reflects the social cost of abuse of resources.
Earth Democracy: Justice, Sustainability, and Peace, by Vandana Shiva. World renowned environmental activist and physicist illuminates Earth Democracy, which "connects the particular to the universal, the diverse to the common, and the local to the global. Earth Democracy is the awareness of these connections and of the rights and responsibilities that flow from them."
Good News for a Change: How Everyday People are Helping the Planet, by David Suzuki & Holly Dressel. This book shows the positive side of the planetary movement toward sustainability, with stories of how real people, and real businesses, are making change for the health of the planet.
Development As Freedom, by Amartya Sen. "By showing that the quality of our lives should be measured not by our wealth, but by our freedom, Sen's writings have revolutionized the theory and practice of development." (Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the UN)
Globalization and its Discontents, by Joseph Stiglitz. "I have written this book because while I was at the World Bank, I saw firsthand the devastating effect that globalization can have on developing countries, and especially the poor within those countries."
Our Ecological Footprint, by Mathis Wackernagel and William Rees. Despite its light hearted approach, this is a very serious exposition of just how much our personal lives and our growth economy demand of the planet.
The Better World Handbook, by Ellis Jones, Ross Haenfler, and Brett Johnson. This book (on 100% post-consumer recycled paper) could be the print version of our website. It contains an impressive array of specific actions each of us can take to improve our relations with our planet and every living system and creature on it.
A Short History of Progress, by Ronald Wright. An historical case for the concept of our civilizations collapse from rampant capitalism and unrealistic use of resources.
CLIMATE CHANGE & GLOBAL WARMING
The Heat Is On, by Ross Gelbspan. A very readable introduction to the science and politics of global warming.
Dead Heat, by Tom Athanasiou & Paul Baer. Explains the science behind global warming and outlines the political reasons that governments have not acted to reverse climate change. The book argues that both environmental and economic factors must be considered to create a solution that puts public good before corporate profit.
PEAK OIL & ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
Hubbert's Peak : The Impending World Oil Shortage, by Kenneth S. Deffeyes. This is an extension of the original concept proposed by M. King Hubbert in the 1950s, that oil production follows a bell curve. The dates vary, but the declining side of the curve is convincingly demonstrated.
Beyond Oil : The View from Hubbert's Peak, by Kenneth S. Deffeyes. This continuing discussion of declining oil production offers dire predictions for a world without petroleum, but also lays out the alternatives at length.
Renewable Energy, by Godfrey Boyle. provides an overview of the principal types of renewable energy and examines the environmental impact and future prospects of different energy sources.
Energy Systems and Sustainability, by Godfrey Boyle. An introduction to the economic, social, environmental, and policy issues raised by current systems of energy use.
REAL COSTS & GENUINE PROGRESS
Development As Freedom, by Amartya Sen. "By showing that the quality of our lives should be measured not by our wealth, but by our freedom, Sen's writings have revolutionized the theory and practice of development." (Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the UN)
The Genuine Progress Indicator, by various authors. Now mostly out of print, these articles and pamphlets are available through the websites we have listed.
Stuff: The Secret Lives of Everyday Things, by John C. Ryan and Alan Thein Durning. Another way of looking at our ecological footprint, Stuff traces the resources used in making many of the things and foods we consume on a regular basis. It's a clarion call to conscious consuming.
RESPECT & REVERENCE FOR OUR NATURAL WORLD
Small is Beautiful, by E.F. Schumacher. First published in 1973, this classic of the imperative for a small-scale economic: — "Economics as if People Mattered"— is still at the top of the growing list of books on sustainable economics. A new edition has recently been published.
The Food Revolution, by John Robbins. "Provides both the information and the encouragement we need in order to reclaim the health of our bodies and our planet. Packed with political dynamite, this book will change your life."—Joanna Macy.
The Ecology of Commerce, by Paul Hawken. Paul Hawken knows how to run a business, and this book demonstrates clearly how desperately we need to get our priorities straight, and how, with hope and courage, we can go about doing it.
Beyond the Limits, by Donella Meadows, Dennis Meadows and Jorgen Randers. The sequel to The Limits to Growth, this study, based on computer modeling, demonstrates the possibilities for a sustainable future.
50 Simple Things Businesses Can Do To Save The Earth. Ideas for businesses of any size to promote environmental change, improve corporate image, and create cost-cutting measures that benefit the Earth.
Good News for a Change: How Everyday People are Helping the Planet, by David Suzuki & Holly Dressel. This book shows the positive side of the planetary movement toward sustainability, with stories of how real people, and real businesses, are making change for the health of the planet.
The Sacred Balance: Rediscovering Our Place in Nature, by David Suzuki. This book directly addresses the reality of "Interbeing" that we've been talking about in these web pages, an introduction to the interdependent way of looking at things.
With Our Leaders
TRUE DEMOCRACY & POLITICAL VALUES
The Open Space of Democracy (New Patriotism), by Terry Tempest Williams. The questions Williams asks us are: What is the true nature of democracy and how do we support it? Can American-style democracy survive in its birthplace?
Who Will Tell the People, by William Greider. This book gains relevance as threats to our democracy increase. It shows us where the threats lie and how to combat them.
GOOD INFORMATION & ALTERNATIVE MEDIA
Corporate Media and the Threat to Democracy, by Robert McChesney. An excellent short introduction to the need for media reform in the United States.
Information War, by Nancy Snow. Documents the close ties between intelligence agencies and a compliant media that is more interested in generating advertising revenues than meaningful debate, and shows how the Pentagon increasingly defines what gets reported.
The Progressive Guide to Alternative Media and Activism, edited by Project Censored. A resource for activists, this Open Media pamphlet provides contacts to alternative media organizations around the country.
A Trumpet to Arms: Alternative Media in America, by David Armstrong. A history of radical and progressive publications in the US.
PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE & ACTIVISM
A Call for Connection, by Gail Bernice Holland. We often feel despair because we can't see how isolated efforts toward planetary consciousness fit together. This book helps reveal the larger view of positive change; and it contains an extensive resource section for anyone wanting to get involved.
Organizing for Social Change, by Kim Bobo, Jackie Kendall and Steve Max. For almost 30 years the Midwest Academy has been training activists in all venues. This is its training program in a book.
Don't Think of an Elephant, by George Lakoff: A primer for progressive activism. "Know Your Values and Frame the Debate."
The Impossible Will Take A Little While, edited by Paul Rogat Loeb. A compelling, insightful collection of essays that are described as "a citizen's guide to hope in a time of fear."
With Each Other
SECURITY & PEACE
Peace is Every Step, by Thich Nhat Hanh. Beloved Vietnamese Buddhist teacher takes us on the path of finding deep and lasting peace.
Earth Democracy: Justice, Sustainability, and Peace, by Vandana Shiva.World renowned environmental activist and physicist illuminates Earth Democracy, which "connects the particular to the universal, the diverse to the common, and the local to the global. Earth Democracy is the awareness of these connections and of the rights and responsibilities that flow from them."
Perpetual War for Perpetual Peace, How We got To Be So Hated, by Gore Vidal. Vidal challenges our assumptions about terrorism and policy that does little to engender peace among peoples and nations.
POVERTY & ECONOMIC JUSTICE
Small is Beautiful, by E.F. Schumacher. First published in 1973, this classic of the imperative for a small-scale economic: — "Economics as if People Mattered"— is still at the top of the growing list of books on sustainable economics. A new edition has recently been published.
Hope's Edge is a continuation, now with her daughter Anna, of Francis Moore Lappe's mission to awaken us to the perceptions and habits which are destroying our planet's life. She shows us how people all over the world are making life-sustaining choices for themselves, their families, their communities and the planet. The book is a hopeful and sobering look at the challenge before each of us to create a sustainable future.
Toward a Nonviolent Economics, by Charles Gray. An in-depth & sobering look at the economic status of countries & people around the world. One man's radical response to building world equity, and aligning his lifestyle with his beliefs. Available for $10 including postage from Sylvia Hart, 256 North Grand, Eugene, OR 97402.
No Logo, by Naomi Klein. A user-friendly handbook that looks at the insidious practices and effects of corporate marketing—and the powerful potential of a growing consumer activist movement.
The Ecology of Commerce, by Paul Hawken. Paul Hawken knows how to run a business, and this book demonstrates clearly how desperately we need to get our priorities straight, and how, with hope and courage, we can go about doing it.
Ancient Futures, by Helena Norberg Hodge. Using the small northern Indian state of Ladakh as her model, Norberg-Hodge demonstrates the devastating effects of the global economy on local indigenous cultures.
The Case Against the Global Economy, edited by Jerry Mander and Edward Goldsmith. An indepth look at the risks and failures of the rush to a global economy by 43 leading thinkers from many disciplines, many of whom present alternatives toward bioregional, local communities and economies.
Beyond Growth: The Economics of Sustainable Development, by Herman E. Daly. This iconoclast economist argues that if we are to achieve the goals of sustainable development we must rethink conventional economic theories and give up our ideal of economic growth.
Eco-Economy, by Lester R. Brown. Discusses the depletion of our planet's natural wealth caused by our current economic models, and presents a design for a profitable economy that accurately reflects the social cost of abuse of resources.
Earth Democracy: Justice, Sustainability, and Peace, by Vandana Shiva.World renowned environmental activist and physicist illuminates Earth Democracy, which "connects the particular to the universal, the diverse to the common, and the local to the global. Earth Democracy is the awareness of these connections and of the rights and responsibilities that flow from them."
Development As Freedom, by Amartya Sen. "By showing that the quality of our lives should be measured not by our wealth, but by our freedom, Sen's writings have revolutionized the theory and practice of development." (Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the UN)
Globalization and its Discontents, by Joseph Stiglitz. "I have written this book because while I was at the World Bank, I saw firsthand the devastating effect that globalization can have on developing countries, and especially the poor within those countries."
The Soul of Capitalism: Opening Paths to a Moral Economy, by William Greider. The author examines how the greatest wealth-creation engine in the history of the world is failing most of us, why it must be changed, and how specifically it can be transformed.
The End of Poverty, by Jeffrey D. Sachs. It may seem too easy to cite a popular book by a world-famous economist, introduced by an even more famous self-proclaimed rock star. But it would also be too easy not to read the book, which in fact takes us to the very heart of the idea of Interbeing.
SHARED VALUES & COMMON DREAMS
Coming Back To Life: Practices to Reconnect Our Lives, Our World, by Joanna Macy with Molly Young Brown. If activism begins with ourselves, this book offers a series of exercises as a place to start, as well as a frank discussion of the roots of despair, fear and apathy.
The Partnership Way, by Riane Eisler & Dave Loye. A practical study book for reorienting our thinking and practices from domination to partnership--in all of our relationships, from the personal to the planetary. A companion volume to The Chalice & The Blade, another Eisler book on partnership.
The Open Space of Democracy (New Patriotism), by Terry Tempest Williams. The questions Williams asks us are: What is the true nature of democracy and how do we support it? Can American-style democracy survive in its birthplace?
Good News for a Change: How Everyday People are Helping the Planet, by David Suzuki & Holly Dressel. This book shows the positive side of the planetary movement toward sustainability, with stories of how real people, and real businesses, are making change for the health of the planet.
COMPASSION & COMMUNICATION
The Sacred Balance: Rediscovering Our Place in Nature, by David Suzuki. This book directly addresses the reality of "Interbeing" that we've been talking about in these web pages, an introduction to the interdependent way of looking at things.
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Compassion, by Marshall Rosenberg. How to bring peace into the way we interact with others, rather than the defensive or aggressive ways many of us are accustomed to.
The End of Poverty, by Jeffrey D. Sachs. It may seem too easy to cite a popular book by a world-famous economist, introduced by an even more famous self-proclaimed rock star. But it would also be too easy not to read the book, which in fact takes us to the very heart of the idea of Interbeing.
With Ourselves
OUR DAY TO DAY LIVING PRACTICES
Diet for a Small Planet, by Frances Moore Lappe. Thirty years ago this revolutionary book presented eye-opening evidence of the harmful effects of a meat-based diet on the planet. She showed how a more plant-based diet could eliminate hunger, solve environmental problems and improve human health worldwide.
Toward a Nonviolent Economics, by Charles Gray. An in-depth & sobering look at the economic status of countries & people around the world. One man's radical response to building world equity, and aligning his lifestyle with his beliefs. Available for $10 including postage from the author: 256 North Grand, Eugene, OR 97402.
No Logo, by Naomi Klein. A user-friendly handbook that looks at the insidious practices and effects of corporate marketing—and the powerful potential of a growing consumer activist movement.
Affluenza, by John de Graff, David Wann & Thomas H. Naylor. Based on two PBS documentaries, Affluenza "looks at our epidemic of over-consumption and shows how we can live simpler, more meaningful lives." (Peter Barnes).
Radical Simplicity, by Jim Merkel. A working guide that shows ordinary folks how to make real changes toward sustainability in their everday lives.
Our Ecological Footprint, by Mathis Wackernagel and William Rees. Despite its light hearted approach, this is a very serious exposition of just how much our personal lives and our growth economy demand of the planet.
The Overspent American, by Juliet Schor. An analysis of overconsumption and why people are driven to spend more and more even though it is rarely satisfying: an "indictment of consumerism".
Use Less Stuff, by Robert Lillenfeld and William Rathje. Techniques and practical tips for using less and thereby creating less waste.
MAKING CHANGE WITH OUR MONEY
Socially Responsible Investing: Making a Difference and Making Money, by Amy Domini. This movement pioneer (the Domini 400 Social Index) outlines the method for making a positive difference in the world through investments.
FINDING FULFILLMENT IN OUR LIVES
Your Money or Your Life, by Joe Dominguez and Vicki Robbin. This book has become the backbone of much of the Voluntary Simplicity movement, and has spawned workbooks and working groups exploring ways of recovering richer lives through reducing the pressures of money.
The Food Revolution, by John Robbins. "Provides both the information and the encouragement we need in order to reclaim the health of our bodies and our planet. Packed with political dynamite, this book will change your life."—Joanna Macy.
The Cultural Creatives, by Paul Ray and Sherry Ruth Anderson. This is the book that provides solid evidence that we are not isolated in our desires and efforts toward planetary consciousness.
Voluntary Simplicity, by Duane Elgin. This classic look at consumption and its effects on people's joy in living contains a large section of stories and testimonials by folks who have simplified their lives and the spiritual fulfillment that resulted.
No Logo, by Naomi Klein. A user-friendly handbook that looks at the insidious practices and effects of corporate marketing—and the powerful potential of a growing consumer activist movement.
Affluenza, by John de Graff, David Wann & Thomas H. Naylor. Based on two PBS documentaries, Affluenza "looks at our epidemic of over-consumption and shows how we can live simpler, more meaningful lives." (Peter Barnes).
Coming Back To Life: Practices to Reconnect Our Lives, Our World, by Joanna Macy with Molly Young Brown. If activism begins with ourselves, this book offers a series of exercises as a place to start, as well as a frank discussion of the roots of despair, fear and apathy.
The Partnership Way, by Riane Eisler & Dave Loye. A practical study book for reorienting our thinking and practices from domination to partnership--in all of our relationships, from the personal to the planetary. A companion volume to The Chalice & The Blade, another Eisler book on partnership.
A Call for Connection, by Gail Bernice Holland. We often feel despair because we can't see how isolated efforts toward planetary consciousness fit together. This book helps reveal the larger view of positive change; and it contains an extensive resource section for anyone wanting to get involved.
Peace is Every Step, by Thich Nhat Hanh. Beloved Vietnamese Buddhist teacher takes us on the path of finding deep and lasting peace.
Hooked!: Buddhist Writings on Greed, Desire, and the Urge to Consume, edited by Stephanie Kaza. These writings on consumerism from a Buddhist perspective, which says that one of the sources of suffering is desire, are a good way to look at the relationship between our planetary footprint and our personal fulfillment.
Good News for a Change: How Everyday People are Helping the Planet, by David Suzuki & Holly Dressel. This book shows the positive side of the planetary movement toward sustainability, with stories of how real people, and real businesses, are making change for the health of the planet.
The Sacred Balance: Rediscovering Our Place in Nature, by David Suzuki. This book directly addresses the reality of "Interbeing" that we've been talking about in these web pages, an introduction to the interdependent way of looking at things.
The Better World Handbook, by Ellis Jones, Ross Haenfler, and Brett Johnson. This book (on 100% post-consumer recycled paper) could be the print version of our website. It contains an impressive array of specific actions each of us can take to improve our relations with our planet and every living system and creature on it.
The Overspent American, by Juliet Schor. An analysis of overconsumption and why people are driven to spend more and more even though it is rarely satisfying: an "indictment of consumerism".
The Revolutionary Art of Happiness, by Sharon Salzburg. "We can travel a long way and do many different things, but our deepest happiness is not born from accumulating new experiences. It is born from letting go of what is unnecessary, and knowing ourselves to be always at home. True happiness may not be at all far away, but it requires a radical change of view as to where to find it." So begins one of America's leading spiritual teachers on the path to happiness.
The Impossible Will Take A Little While, edited by Paul Rogat Loeb. A compelling, insightful collection of essays that re described as "a citizen's guide to hope in a time of fear."
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