I’m reading through a book of essays by Wendell Berry, which I’m finding quite provocative and humorous. In his essay called "Peaceableness Toward Enemies" he comments on the first Gulf War: the factors that led to it and its consequences. It’s an alarming essay on how, in his words, war has become obsolete as a tool to bring any net good to the world. He ends the essay these words:
"The most alarming sign of the state of our society now is that our leaders have the courage to sacrifice the lives of young people in war but have not the courage to tell us that we must be less greedy and less wasteful."
– Wendell Berry, 1991.
I have always admired Wendell Berry, ever since I read The Unsettling of America 25 years ago.
Plus his 2 essays in response to Sept 11 were/are superb: Thoughts in the Presence of Fear and The Idea of a Local Economy.
Please check out these related references on the necessary politics and culture of the future.
1. http://www.dabase.org/coopcomm.htm
2. http://www.coteda.com/fundamentals/index.html
3. http://www.ispeace723.org
Speaking of sustainability (but not war), you should read both The Omnivore’s Dilemma and In Defense of Food, both by Michael Pollan. I think we mentioned the latter title while you were here…
I was told to read the Omnivore first, as it kind of lays out where exactly our food comes from — and then read in Defense of Food. But at my library all copies of Omnivore were out, and there was one Defense left, so I’m reading that. Fascinating. I keep thinking, “Ben would be totally interested in this.” It’s a pretty easy/quick read, but compelling nonetheless. Do it and then we’ll discuss!
I’ve had both of those books recommended to me by about four people now. Probably should read them! I’ll do it – then we’ll discuss!