Synopses & Reviews
This book goes to the heart of the unfolding reality of the twenty-first century: international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have all failed, and before the end of the century Earth is projected to be warmer than it has been for 15 million years. The question “can the crisis be avoided?” has been superseded by a more frightening one, “what can be done to prevent the devastation of the living world?” And the disturbing answer, now under wide discussion both within and outside the scientific community, is to seize control of the very climate of the Earth itself. Clive Hamilton begins by exploring the range of technologies now being developed in the field of geoengineering--the intentional, enduring, large-scale manipulation of Earths climate system. He lays out the arguments for and against climate engineering, and reveals the extent of vested interests linking researchers, venture capitalists, and corporations. He then examines what it means for human beings to be making plans to control the planets atmosphere, probes the uneasiness we feel with the notion of exercising technological mastery over nature, and challenges the ways we think about ourselves and our place in the natural world.
Review
“Mr Hamilton makes many important points. . .and is an effective critic of a breath-taking idea.”—The Economist
Review
‘In his crystal-clear analysis Clive Hamilton warns against “Promethean recklessness” and calls for “utmost caution and deep reflection”. It’s depressing to realise what we have done and still want to do to our planet, but hope lies in thinkers such as Hamilton, if only we heed them before it’s too late.’—Tom Moriarty,
Irish Times.
Synopsis
An essential book that comes to grips with the events that will determine the fate of the Earth
Synopsis
Controlling the earth’s climate system sounds like science fiction, but scientists, government agencies, and businesses around the world are working on plans to do just that. This essential book explores what we must do to prepare for the age of climate engineering.
About the Author
Clive Hamilton is Vice-Chancellor’s Chair and professor of public ethics, Centre for Applied Philosophy and Public Ethics, Charles Sturt University, Canberra. His previous books include Affluenza: When Too Much is Never Enough and Requiem for a Species: Why We Resist the Truth About Climate Change. He lives in Canberra, Australia.