This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate by Naomi Klein
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Summary
The most important book yet from the author of the international bestseller The Shock Doctrine, a brilliant explanation of why the climate crisis challenges us to abandon the core "free market" ideology of our time, restructure the global economy, and remake our political systems.In short, either we embrace radical change ourselves or radical changes will be visited upon our physical world. The status quo is no longer an option. In This Changes Everything Naomi Klein argues that climate change isn't just another issue to be neatly filed between taxes and health care. It's an alarm that calls us to fix an economic system that is already failing us in many ways. Klein meticulously builds the case for how massively reducing our greenhouse emissions is our best chance to simultaneously reduce gaping inequalities, re-imagine our broken democracies, and rebuild our gutted local economies. She exposes the ideological desperation of the climate-change deniers, the messianic delusions of the would-be geoengineers, and the tragic defeatism of too many mainstream green initiatives. And she demonstrates precisely why the market has not-and cannot-fix the climate crisis but will instead make things worse, with ever more extreme and ecologically damaging extraction methods, accompanied by rampant disaster capitalism. Klein argues that the changes to our relationship with nature and one another that are required to respond to the climate crisis humanely should not be viewed as grim penance, but rather as a kind of gift-a catalyst to transform broken economic and cultural priorities and to heal long-festering historical wounds. And she documents the inspiring movements that have already begun this process: communities that are not just refusing to be sites of further fossil fuel extraction but are building the next, regeneration-based economies right now. Can we pull off these changes in time? Nothing is certain. Nothing except that climate change changes everything. And for a very brief time, the nature of that change is still up to us.
While there are certainly some valid points made, it's worth noting that this book takes a rather biased approach to the issues at hand and fails to delve into any potential complexities or critically examine its own suggestions. It's important to understand that the main focus of this book isn't solely on climate change, but rather on promoting an anticapitalist perspective and advocating for social justice.
There were an excessive amount of statistics and political arguments presented in the book. As someone who strongly supports environmental causes, I felt overwhelmed with the barrage of numbers and the constant vilification of politicians. I wish the author had included more practical suggestions or personal stories to complement the chapters. To be honest, I couldn't bring myself to continue reading past the first chapter. I attempted to skip ahead, hoping for a change in tone, but unfortunately, it remained consistent. I don't like giving negative reviews, but I believe this book would be more enjoyable to read rather than listen to as an audiobook.
This audiobook is an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking listen. It has the ability to touch you on multiple emotional and intellectual levels. I highly recommend that every person on this planet takes the time to absorb its message. The narration is top-notch and adds an extra layer of greatness to the overall experience.
Naomi Kline has a skill for making connections. This book was written prior to Trump's presidency, and it made me consider the significance of Bernie's potential victory for the survival of our species. Hopefully, four more years won't drive us further into a hopeless situation... assuming we aren't already there.
In addition to exploring the impact of climate denial on capitalism, I thoroughly enjoyed the author's analysis of the ambitious technological advancements that are being contemplated.
Naomi Klein's book, "This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate," prompts a couple of potential titles for this review. One could be "Beat the Drum," acknowledging Klein's efforts to raise public awareness about the reality of global warming. Another title could be "Who Gets to Decide?" alluding to a significant flaw in Klein's proposed solutions for addressing the issue.
Klein argues that capitalism is to blame for global warming, but this perspective is misguided. Global warming is a consequence of human nature itself, not a specific economic system. Democratic capitalism, with its emphasis on individual freedom, has historically provided the best framework for addressing complex problems. While Klein is not a scientist but rather a writer, researcher, and social activist, her book serves as a wake-up call to the public.
Finding solutions to global warming requires a combination of both politics and science. Just as Einstein's theory of energy and mass equivalence led to the creation of devastating atomic bombs, the overwhelming scientific consensus on climate change necessitates urgent action. In the context of World War II, democratic capitalism played a role in the decision to use atomic bombs to end the conflict, highlighting the effectiveness of a deliberative process within this economic and political system.
While it is essential to raise awareness and foster a sense of urgency, it is unrealistic to expect a fundamental change in human nature. In societies that value individual freedom, people understand the importance of taking responsibility for the well-being of the planet. Therefore, the question of "Who gets to decide?" should be entrusted to nation-states that uphold individual freedom, such as the United States, despite its leaning towards democratic capitalism.
This audiobook tackles a challenging subject matter, and it's quite a lengthy listen. I devoted my time to it from start to finish, and I must admit that it left me feeling quite downhearted once I reached the end. I wouldn't particularly suggest this book for those seeking a casual listening experience.
Naomi truly understands the situation at hand and effectively communicates her insights. The gravity of the matter necessitates significant changes in our lifestyles, work habits, and recreational activities. Words cannot fully capture the significance of this book, and I even have a physical copy for reference. I strongly urge you to listen to this book, as it will profoundly impact your perspective on life.
Ellen Archer's narration was impeccable, making it one of the most outstanding performances I've encountered thus far.
If you give a damn about the environment, social equality, and the future of our planet, then you absolutely need to read this book. It's hands down one of the most incredible reads of 2014, if not the absolute best.
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