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The Collapse of Us

Alexandra's picture

Though I have only read the first couple of chapters, the novel "The Collapse of Western Civilization" by Naomi Oreskes and Erik Conway has been successful at leaving me unnerved. The book talks about the destruction of the Earth but what seems to be the most daunting factor is the pure ignorance society possesses in this science fiction novel. The authors unfold the storyline of small groups of people, corporations, who oppose any means of environmental protection. Yet these small businesses become masses of people, the government even, fighting against beneficial actions and efforts to save the planet. And for what? Wealth and ease. It is truly discomforting to read about those who risk the lives of human beings and animals for their own comfort. Whether the early events that lead up to the collapse are exaggerated or not, society should be made aware of the effects we have on our planet.  

"But before the movement to change could really take hold, there was backlash. Critics claimed that the scientific uncertainties were too great to justify the expense and inconvenience of eliminating greenhouse gas emissions, and that any attempt to solve the problem would cost more than it was worth.”

Nothing is worth more than saving lives; saving our Earth. 

Excerpt From: Naomi Oreskes & Erik M. Conway. “The Collapse of Western Civilization.” iBooks. https://itun.es/us/opog0.l