BAA Book Reviews · Sep–Oct 1990

‍New World New Mind

Robert Orstein and Paul Ehrlich (1990)

New World New Mind is refreshingly different from typical environmental books. It has an enlightening philosophical and psychological depth. The authors do an excellent job of thoroughly exploring the relationship between the capacity of the human mind and the breadth and scope of the new world’s problems. The authors characterize the old mind as responding to sudden changes in events, such as a predator in our cave, tragic news of a plane crash or a baby falling into a Texas well. The old mind is not able to respond to gradual changes, such as air pollution, the AIDS epidemic, or the population explosion. However, New World New Mind is not all doom and gloom. The authors have faith in humanity’s ability to adapt to change.

Out Earth Ourselves

Ruth Caplan (1990)

With the forward written by singer/songwriter Pete Seeger, Our Earth Ourselves is a self-proclaimed “action-oriented guide to help you protect and preserve the environment.” The book is broken up into sections on various environmental crises. It is sprinkled with environmental testimonials called “people making a difference.” The author differentiates this book by virtue of its section on becoming an environmental activist. It discusses how to get an activist group organized, funded, and promoted through the media.

The Lorax

Dr. Seuss (1971)

Remarkably ahead of its time, The Lorax has a playful approach to bringing home some strong environmental messages. In Dr. Seuss’s typical style, The Lorax is versatile enough to convey an important message to adults and children. For a quick and fun, yet thoughtful and creative peek into the effects of humanity’s self-proclaimed “progress,” The Lorax is a delight.

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Special thanks to Printers Inc. in Mountain View for their assistance in producing these reviews.

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Published in Action, vol 1, no 2 · Sep–Oct 1990