LaConte also emphasizes the point that the key to change is that we humans form more intimate relationships with Nature and learn her ways. This is not just about conservation, Outward Bound bonding-with-Nature experiences or shopping at farmers markets, although these things are important. Rather, this is about living a totally, different life on Earth. She admits this will be difficult for us to fathom because none of us living today has ever been without oil. So imagining a world not powered by it makes for some scary scenarios.
On the other hand LaConte reassures us that "we can obey Life's rules, adopt lifeways that mimic Life's ways and by that means, live within Earth's means."
LaConte's argument is credible but trying to convince people who think oil will never run out as well as those who remain stalwart cornucopians will also be difficult because we all have a stake in continuing the status quo.
This dilemma prompts some distressing but vital questions. What do we do to start this change? What must we give up? Who goes first? When do we begin?
I, for one, find these questions overwhelming even though I recognize the urgency to answer them in my own household, neighborhood and community.
Nevertheless, I highly recommend this book for personal reading and reflection as well as for discussion groups and classroom use because its edginess forces readers to confront their habits in the context of Life's rules.
We've got to get the conversation going about what awaits us in the twenty-first century and Life Rules provides a good starting point. The book is readable, sincere and instructive. Now, let's get to work!
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