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A Sustainable Life

James Vodnik Author Interview

Humanity in Trouble and Our Failure to Act is an unfiltered collection of essays that offer insights into the human condition, where humans have gone wrong, and potential solutions to alleviate human suffering on both individual and global scales. Why was this an important book for you to write?

Because as a species we have not improved our lot or reversed our negative impact on the environment and life on the planet. We have not lived up to our potential given our big brains and despite our “invention” of science and technology and subsequent understanding of how the Universe works.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

Humanity’s lack of connection or respect for Nature resulting in our devastating effect on the environment.

Our lack of impulse control, egocentric nature, and failure to live up to the potential of our big brains.

Gradual but impending environmental devastation and high probability of species-level extinctions, including our own.

Perpetual emergence of dictatorial, warlike leaders throughout history, now armed with nuclear weapons.

What advice do you have for individuals who feel powerless in the face of the world’s current challenges and want to make a positive impact?

Start with working to improve all aspects of one’s own existence: live a sustainable life, support humanitarian and environmental action, vote for enlightened political candidates, practice charity, study the self, meditate, improve the education of children, and promote global peace.

What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Humanity in Trouble and Our Failure to Act?

You are not a “separate being” but rather a sentient member of the Universe interconnected with the web of all life, matter, and energy, and act accordingly by practicing gratitude, love, and compassion.

Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Amazon

Mankind is on a crash course with destiny and doesn’t seem to have a clue! We are witnessing rapidly accelerating global warming of our own making that could potentially result in species extinctions, including our own. Witness widespread signs of the impending disaster including super storms, record drought, floods, forest fires and climate refugees. Dangerous nuclear saber rattling by Russia and North Korea is on the upswing and the Russian invasion of Ukraine threatens to expand to Western Europe. The increasing number of fascist, autocratic, dictator-run states such as China, North Korea, Turkey, and Brazil are snuffing individual freedoms, denying social justice and fanning the flames of global conflict.  The world’s population is rapidly approaching eight billion and is well past the point of Earth’s ability to sustain us. Crushing poverty, starvation, and dozens of militarized religious and ethnic conflicts. We have polluted our planet with toxic chemicals, oil spills, reckless dumping of trash on land and sea, contaminating the oceans with fish and fowl killing plastic waste. 

 This book is the result of overwhelming outrage and disappointment with our species, our failure to adequately address worldwide problems that threaten our very existence. We (if there is a ‘we’) should be embarrassed and ashamed. Nature has endowed us with near perfect bodies and amazing brains and for the most part we squander our evolutionary inheritance. And the greatest gift of all, consciousness, is under-developed in most of us. In this collection of essays, the author offers insights into the human condition, the reasons we have run afoul of the natural order, along solutions to alleviate human suffering on an individual and global scale plus some playful jabs at our human folly. 

When Liberty Enslaves: The Toxic Blend of Faith and Politics

When Liberty Enslaves: The Toxic Blend of Faith and Politics by Jerry Aveta offers a detailed look at how the intersection of faith and politics has shaped the course of American history, particularly through the lens of liberty. The book draws comparisons between the pre-Civil War era and the present day, exploring how issues like faith, politics, and social justice continue to divide the nation. It examines themes like freedom, enslavement, and the consequences of intertwining religious beliefs with government decisions. Aveta ultimately reflects on the parallels between America’s past and its current political climate.

Aveta’s writing gets personal quickly, which makes the book feel relatable. The introduction about his disinterest in history early on hit home for me. I wasn’t expecting such a confession in a book that digs into heavy political and social themes. But it worked. The way he ties his personal disinterest in history to his eventual realization of its importance drew me in. There’s a clear shift when he discusses how today’s political climate echoes the tensions before the Civil War. That felt eerie and relevant, especially the parts comparing faith’s role in both eras. Aveta doesn’t just lecture; he reflects and invites you to think about it with him. One thing that kept me hooked was the comparison between old and current political issues. Aveta draws bold parallels between the pre-Civil War issues of slavery and today’s debates around gun rights and abortion. I didn’t expect the sections about the sanctity of life and how they pit people of the same faith against each other. That hit hard. The discussion on gun rights, especially how people interpret “liberty” differently in this context, made me stop and think. Aveta’s point about one person’s liberty potentially enslaving another was something I hadn’t considered before, and it made the book feel timely.

When Liberty Enslaves is a thought-provoking and timely read that encourages deep reflection on the role of faith in politics. Jerry Aveta’s personal approach, historical insight, and the way he connects the past to our present make the book both engaging and eye-opening. It’s a call to reconsider the impact of intertwining religion with governance, and it challenges readers to think critically about the state of liberty in America today. I’d highly recommend this book to anyone interested in politics, history, or religion.

Pages: 223 | ASIN : B0DCMG8MYK

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Armageddon

Mat Jackson’s Armageddon is a compelling exploration of global warming and international economic relations, structured in two distinct parts. The first section delves into the complexities of global warming, examining its causes, consequences, current mitigation efforts, and the challenges we face today. The second part shifts focus to the dynamics between developed and developing countries, scrutinizing how institutions like the World Bank and the IMF operate as instruments of Western economic power to influence and protect their interests globally.

Jackson’s analysis of IMF practices is particularly insightful, offering a balanced view of their benefits and drawbacks. He also explores how developing nations can leverage foreign policies and loans to foster economic growth and enhance their circumstances.

While the first half of the book addresses the crucial issue of global warming, it leans heavily on technical details, statistics, and scientific studies. I feel this data-centric approach, although informative, can somewhat overshadow the emotional connection necessary to engage readers on a human level. I believe incorporating more personal stories and emotional appeals might have made this discussion more impactful and accessible. Jackson’s thorough research and educational approach simplify complex subjects, making them accessible to readers with limited prior knowledge of international relations. His ability to present intricate information without overwhelming the reader is commendable. Each topic is clearly explained, with relevant references to historical and current events.

Armageddon is a thought-provoking and inspiring read, particularly for those interested in international relations and environmental issues. Mat Jackson’s work not only informs but also motivates readers to consider their role in making a difference in the world.

Pages: 206 | ASIN : B09H2Q4M52

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