Nonfiction Review
The Future Of Life
by Edward O. Wilson
Published by Alfred A. Knopf, 2002
ISBN: 0-679-45078-5
Hardcover, 230 pages
Reviewed by Michael Pastore
Jane Goodall, speaking at Cornell University in April 2002, explained that at this moment in human history, when it seems as if the world is spinning perilously out of our control, there is one power that every human being needs: Hope. She presented three reasons for hopefulness: our genius for solving problems; the awareness, energy, and commitment of modern youth; and the indomitable nature of the human spirit.
The central problem of the new century, I have argued, is how to raise the poor to a decent standard of living worldwide while preserving as much of the rest of life as possible.
— E.O. Wilson
Wilson's brave book is an example of human genius, a trustworthy guide for youth of all ages, and another powerful reason for hope. The Future Of Life is a summary of frightening facts about the accelerating extinction of natural ecosystems and species. More than facts alone, Wilson provides a cornucopia of hopeful signs that includes amusing observations about plants and animals, personal meditations ala Thoreau, the economic and life-quality benefits of biodiversity, and wise solutions to the ultimate problem of how to meet the world's economic needs without sacrificing the lives of our endangered animals and plants.
Wilson, a biologist-philosopher, believes in our interconnectedness with the ecosystem and all living beings. About this intimate harmony between humans and nature, he writes: "That is the essence of environmentalism. It is the guiding principle of those devoted to the health of the planet. But it is not yet a general worldview, evidently not yet compelling enough to distract many people away from the primal diversions of sports, politics, religion, and private wealth."
What is unique about The Future Of Life? Wilson makes his readers deeply understand that we now have enough knowledge to act effectively. We know precisely what has caused our environmental crises. And experts have agreed on a 12-point strategy, which Wilson describes in just-enough detail, that would slow down and even reverse the environmental devastation caused by overpopulation and the heartless exploitation of the natural world.
In the end, Wilson calls for all of us — environmentalists, business leaders, religious leaders, NGOs, governments, and everyone who cares — to put aside political differences, and join together to accept humankind's responsibilities for stewardship. Human survival depends on this: learning how to care for and protect the biosphere: all our natural resources and all living species.
About the Reviewer
Michael Pastore is the Editorial Director of BookLovers Review and Zorba Press. Currently he is writing his fourth novel, and working to establish the Youthtopia Institute and Youthtopia website, devoted to children, creativity and the arts, humanized technology, and a sustainable world.
