The Long Boom: A Future History of the World, 1980-2020 (Paperback)

There are four Parts followed by an Afterword.

Part I Track the Inevitable (ie major developments in technology, economics and politics)

Part II The Politics of the Long Boom (ie how to overcome "looming political problems")

Part III The Engines of the Twenty-First Century (ie technologies which can help to preserve the environment)

Part IV Birth of a Global Civilization (ie creation of a new middle class amidst fundamental global changes)

In the forward-thinking Afterword, the authors reaffirm their faith in the almost unlimited potentialities of the Long Boom IF the human race can somehow avoid committing planetary suicide. They are emphatically NOT misty-eyed visionaries; on the contrary, they seem most comfortable when addressing harsh realities such as territorial "politics" which, if permitted, can result in the Long Whimper. Among their objectives is to provide "a starting point for an ongoing global conversation about how everyone can take advantage of the great potential of our era and create a better world." The observations shared are anchored in the real-world; the suggestions offered are practical and do-able. If for whatever reasons the human race is unwilling and/or unable to fulfill the promise of the Long Boom, who to blame? According to Pogo, "We have met the enemy and he is us." Schwartz, Leyden & Hyatt would perhaps reply, "OK but so what? There's still time. There's still hope. We have everything we need. Let's work together on a global basis. It won't be easy but we can do it. We really can."

How? This brilliant book answers that question. Better yet, it explains why.

Those whose minds and hearts are nourished by this book should also check out Natural Capitalism (Hawken, Lovins & Lovins) and Holding On to Reality (Borgmann) which address many of the same issues but from somewhat different perspectives.

It isn't "futurology", it isn't difficult, it isn't a political treatise. It is common sense for mankind.

It is global, and if you are reading a review at Amazon YOU are global! Don't underestimate your importance, your influence, your being present and interactive at this potentially pivotal time.

Buy this book, read it, and then buy further copies to send to your old school library! Take part in spreading the book's inspirational message.

I really believe it is the "bedside book" for 2000 whether you are a Peer of The Realm or a member of Greenpeace, and eco-warrior or a property developer.

Get your hands on a copy urgently: to borrow a couple of ad phrases, "Be Inspired", "We Have The Technology" - just read this book for the sake of the World.