Rapid Collapse of Global Industrial Civilization

Rapid Collapse
of Global Industrial Civilization
with Ken Peterson

As part of our on-going discussion of climate change, resource limitations, and the different assessments of future social collapse, we will discuss articles by two writers who focus on these issues. This discussion group today is for those who understand that the problems of global industrial society cannot be resolved through new, “green,” or alternative technology.
If you appreciate studying concepts of social development and alternative ideas regarding the unavoidable simplification of present society — then this group is for you! The writers and articles that we will discuss are listed below. Please read the articles before the meeting so that we will all be prepared to contribute in a meaningful way.

Joseph Tainter is well-known for his now-classic 1988 book, Collapse of Complex Societies. His article, Complexity, Problem Solving, and Sustainable Societies,is a concise summary of his thoughts on social complexity in relation to energy resources. It may be found at:

http://www.dieoff.com/page134.htm

David Korowicz is a physicist who also refers to himself as a human systems ecologist. He is associated with the Feasta organization in Dublin, Ireland, which promotes a more-sustainable society. Korowicz has written an article, Tipping Point: Near-Term Systemic Implications of a Peak in Global Oil Production focusing on the systemic effects of peak oil and the possibility of impending collapse of global society:

http://www.theoildrum.com/files/Tipping%20Point.pdf

If you appreciate the study of anthropology, ecology, and history, and if you understand that we humans are not doing well at solving our deepest problems with development of yet more complex social structures and technology, then this evening’s program, Earth Awareness, is for you!

Humanist Hall is wheelchair accessible around the corner at 411 28th Street

$5 donations are expected