Progress or Collapse: The Crises of Market Greed

Climate change, water shortages, and food scarcities all play a part in our looming ecological crises; is it too late to save the humankind from itself? De Vogli, associate professor in the School of Public Health at the University of Michigan, explores the connection between the environmental crisis and the psychological, cultural, and economic emergencies affecting modern societies. He argues that global ecological destruction is occurring alongside other crises such as the rise of recognized mental disorders, social inequalities, and financial instability. These are just the effects, but the real culprit is a long and ongoing radical reorientation of society "into a market of selfish profiteers," wherein people and nature have become commodities. The system of market greed has spun "out of control...like a train, without a driver." The question is can anything be done to change its direction? De Vogli's desire for change is apparent and his steadfast position on the issue of market greed comes through loud and clear, but the extensive research presented within the book offers eye-opening facts. Researchers, students of psychology, public health, economics, and human development as well as anyone concerned for the future of humanity will find this book especially thoughtprovoking. (Feb.)