(Larger Image)
|
by Newt Gingrich, Terry Maple
ISBN: 0452289920
Binding/Media: Paperback - 256 pages
Condition: Used: Like New
Comments: Sold with pride. This is a previously unread copy pulled from our shelves. It is rated as like new because it may have light shelf wear.
More Product Infomation
|
Customer Reviews
|
Feel-good eco-reading for political Conservatives
Rating  (3)
Date: 2009-08-26
1 out of 1 customers found this reveiw helpful
This book starts with a laudable call for open-mindedness and for a middle ground of cooperation between Conservatives and Liberals, as the terms are understood in contemporary US politics. However, throughout the book this goal is severely compromised and the book ends with some close-minded, idealogical generalisations. Cooperation and problem-solving simply cannot take place if people allow their idealogies to exclude compromise. The book does offer some good ideas and is exceptional for several reasons: (1) it was apparently intended for Republicans as a positioning paper before the 2008 US election and subsequently extended with an epilogue; (2) Newt Gingrich is a well-known senior Republican; and (3) America is facing fundamentally important environmental problems in an age of radical political polarisation. The authors write: "Currently, liberal politicians operate as if they own the [environmental] issue; in their reaction, conservatives appear to disdain it. As the media overreacts to information and generates sensational headlines, mainstream American tunes out.... we are prone to... learned helplessness. We cope by doing nothing to change the situation [...and...] the problem only deepens." Environmental problems can be addressed by the "silent majority" in America through green conservatism, "a positive, entrepreneurial, market-based, solutions-oriented, mainstream environmental movement conducive to a pragmatic, nonpartisan public policy." But such a movement is in no way uniquely conservative, unless conservatism is defined as everything to the right of socialism. Who on earth is against solutions-oriented policy? Furthermore the authors' support of nuclear power (page 197) is pro-business but not conservative, because a real conservative never underestimates undesirable scenarios if they involve permanent damage to the country.
At a literal level, the book claims to call for objectivity and non-partisan cooperation at solving environmental problems. Unfortunately, this call lacks credibility. Newt Gingrich has a long partisan history. More importantly, the authors frequently lapse into simplistic partisanship by characterising liberals as doomsday environmentalists hostile to market-based solutions and lacking the common sense and ingenuity of conservatives. This is especially so in the epilogue, where the book abandons the pretence of objectivity and switches to ideological dogma. In the beginning of the book (page 13), regulation is admitted as a necessary evil. By the end of the book, regulation is simply evil. Another example article of anti-government mantras: the failure of Amtrack is uniquely due to it being government-run (this firmly held belief ignores all other factors, the failure of privatised railways of the UK and the success of government-run railways in many other OECD countries).
The book can best be understood as the authors' strong plea to conservatives (or Republicans) to let go of and be done with their disdain for environmentalism because maintaining this disdain would be bad for the earth, a missed opportunity for America and, above all, disastrous for the Republicans in future elections. The book was written in the context of the Republicans having problems at the polls and the set-back of the conservative movement. Nonetheless, the authors are usually well-informed and apparently sincere about their environmentalism. If Gingrich proves his sincerity through non-partisan actions in environmental politics, then his call for non-partisan, constructive cooperation should only be welcomed by all.
The authors occasionally sell ideas based on weak empirical data. The business case for carbon sequestration, obviously favoured by big carbon emitters, has become extremely questionable. The idea that reproductive rates stabilise as the affluence of a society increases is no longer certain (Nature, Mikko Marskyla, University of Pennsylvania). The growth of European carbon emissions from 2000 to 2004 was largely influenced by the entry of ten east-European countries to the European Union in 2002.
The chapters are informally structured around high-level themes (e.g. entrepreneurialism, philanthropy), with many interesting bits of information here and there. Regarding the contract referred to in the title, it is very general and abstract, and probably only used because of the intended association with Gingrich's "Contract with America" of 1994. All of the contract's ten articles ("commitments") are obvious: science should be objective and "sound" (amazing!), government can not solve problems alone, people should cooperate etc. None of the contract's ideas are uniquely conservative, again unless conservative is defined as everything that is not socialist. It certainly does not hurt for more people to learn about reducing, reusing and recycling.
Gingrich wants to win over Republicans. He formulates his text to be pleasing for this audience, especially by way of verbose emphasis of what they like to hear (e.g. government policies can be poor) and concise and qualified admissions about what they do not like to hear (e.g., government is necessary). He does admit that unpleasantness must be addressed (no details), but he couches this in a patriotic reminder of how Americans traditionally unite to face adversity (no details). The authors are correct that an overly pessimistic outlook will not sell: "To inspire others to achieve, we must continue to express optimism." However, optimism without clearly exemplary behaviour is worthless, and exemplary behaviour means radical change for individuals. The authors avoid spelling out the wrenching changes that this means. Surely the reader can accept something more than just feel-good.
Again and again (and again) the reader learns that limited government, tax incentives and "prizes" are better alternatives than any form of regulation. This is quite true in many areas, but dangerously unrealistic for great swaths of environmental areas such as international waters, i.e., about two thirds of the planet's surface area. The authors imply (page 194) that the havoc wreaked by trawling can be solved generally if local environmentalist groups simply group together, "purchase the trawling boats" and "buy out each trawler's business". Most local environmental groups would have difficulty buying out a local canoe rental shop and have no chance against giant fishing concerns.
Many pages of nice sounding examples are given, but nice-sounding examples are not statistics. It's a fine thing to learn that something is being done well by some organisation for some specific issue (e.g., that the State of Massachusetts "prefers" to use environmentally friendly cleaning products), but the reader usually doesn't get sufficient contextual information to know whether substantial problems are solved comprehensively. Thus the abundant examples start as inspirational but end up sounding unconvincing. Somewhere buried in the text (page 96) the authors admit that "some caution is advised, as some of these efforts may be regarded as little more than public relations devices." One heartily agrees with this warning, especially with regards to the automobile and oil corporations. The authors are irritatingly pussy-footing about criticising any specific company. If their optimistic approach excludes the possibility of pointing out failure, then it won't work.
The style is tiresome. Much is written in clichés. The following example is not exceptional: "Our environment's current state represents both a unique challenge and a golden opportunity. If we respond with the ingenuity and diligence consistent with our national heritage and our sense of duty, we will not only resolve our environmental problems, but we will also launch an unprecedented epoch of economic prosperity." Undoubtedly the experienced Gingrich also reverts to this wooden style in order to avoid the risk of bad sounding quotes out of context. The book has a lot of good things to say, but granted the style, it is fortunate that the book is short.
As The Economist has always argued, simple taxation of carbon emissions would be the most efficient answer, but that would be unacceptable for ideologues. So much for being "solution-oriented" and "pragmatic".
|
|
A pledge to the environment, rather than a manifesto
Rating  (5)
Date: 2009-05-19
Reading "Contract with the Earth" was a pleasant surprise. I've read a few of Newt's books before. They are all bursting with ideas, but written matter-of-factly and without much style. In comparison, this book is almost poetic in style. The chapters are arranged thematically, and the transitions from paragraph to paragraph are also thematic, which prevents this short book from becoming programmatic, doctrinaire or ideological.
Sure, there are the occasional criticisms of the Bush environmental policy - which, admittedly, was confusing and not well explained - but there is also an appreciation for the conservation efforts of the Bush administration.
In tone, this book is designed as a pledge to the environment, rather than a manifesto. Clearly, Gingrich and Maple are aware that conservatives, in particular, have shut the ears reflexively, everytime the words "envioronment, green or climate change" are mentioned. Gingrich and Maple want to open those ears up, and show that conservatives can participate in the debate about the environment.
Refreshingly, this book has a lot to say to families and children rather than just being addressed to the experts. Thus, the authors recommend that "appreciation of nature," such as visiting zoos, national parks or your backyard, can deliver positive results to the environment, when participation in a high-end carbon trading scheme is more of a plan aimed at Fortune 500 companies.
If you are tired of reading potshots at the Bush administration, scary Armageddon scenarios, or the need to turn down your thermostats and wear a sweater, this book is for you!
|
|
Contract with the Earth
Rating (5)
Date: 2008-11-17
This was a refreshing and insightful book from a political figure with a bipartisan message for us all to appreciate. I got on to this book when listening to an interview of Gingrich on NPR. I am curious if it were not for the timing in fall of 2007, with rise to a high visibility political season, would the interview had taken place. In that interview Gingrich was asked if he is running for President. He said he was not, for the same reason Al Gore is not running. He feels he can accomplish more for the world with regard to the environment as a citizen than he could as President, being encumbered with politics.
What is Gingrich's message? First is unity in the cause. Not just across national party lines but across international lines as well. Second is recognition that we do not have all the facts, in terms of the full balance of the ecosystems of our planet earth. Third is the facts should not be proprietary but rather universally shared. Fourth, is government at all levels and business need to come together with effective participation and policy, in a cooperative posture. Fifth is education of our youth and remedial education of our elders on the individual contributions through consumerism, philanthropy, voting, and life style changes that can lead to a cleaner environment. All this says a collective conscience with one unified goal is essential. The key yet silent word through out the book is balance.
I was somewhat intrigued at a couple byproducts brought about with a collective conscience on the environment... to see the complete review do a keyword search on cigarroomofbooks
|
|
engaging treatise
Rating  (4)
Date: 2008-11-15
1 out of 3 customers found this reveiw helpful
This is an interesting look at merging American conservative values with environmentalism. Using the concept of the Contract with America that ironically failed to have any of it points survive, but helped bring the conservatives to power making it a successful manifesto; Newt Gingrich and Terry L. Maple provide ten points to save the environment, but not at the cost of the economy. The key unlike the 1994 tenet is reconciliation with all sides moving past rhetoric into doing the right thing politically while encouraging "compatible partnerships" between business and environmentalists. However some of the hug the other side tone is lost when the authors condemn the "Inconvenient Truth" crowd as being the drivel of activist scientists (taken from the mantra of activist judges as if society would accept as professionals, inactive judges or inactive scientists). Well written and interesting as the writers make a concerned case for saving the planet without destroying business interests, CONTRACT WITH EARTH is an engaging treatise at how the economy and the environment can coexist in harmony, but the book lacks deep fecundity as Newt Gingrich and Terry L. Maple never drill past the surface mantle.
Harriet Klausner
|
|
Same old, same old
Rating  (1)
Date: 2008-04-18
1 out of 1 customers found this reveiw helpful
A lot of rehash of old ideas and trite science. I was disappointed, especially since i have been a big fan of Newt's philosophies and politics.
|
(Larger Image)
|
by Newt Gingrich, Terry Maple
ISBN: 0452289920
Binding/Media: Paperback - 256 pages
Condition: Used: Like New
Comments: Sold with pride. This is a previously unread copy pulled from our store shelves. It is rated as like new because it may have light shelf wear.
More Product Infomation
|
Customer Reviews
|
Feel-good eco-reading for political Conservatives
Rating (3)
Date: 2009-08-26
1 out of 1 customers found this reveiw helpful
This book starts with a laudable call for open-mindedness and for a middle ground of cooperation between Conservatives and Liberals, as the terms are understood in contemporary US politics. However, throughout the book this goal is severely compromised and the book ends with some close-minded, idealogical generalisations. Cooperation and problem-solving simply cannot take place if people allow their idealogies to exclude compromise. The book does offer some good ideas and is exceptional for several reasons: (1) it was apparently intended for Republicans as a positioning paper before the 2008 US election and subsequently extended with an epilogue; (2) Newt Gingrich is a well-known senior Republican; and (3) America is facing fundamentally important environmental problems in an age of radical political polarisation. The authors write: "Currently, liberal politicians operate as if they own the [environmental] issue; in their reaction, conservatives appear to disdain it. As the media overreacts to information and generates sensational headlines, mainstream American tunes out.... we are prone to... learned helplessness. We cope by doing nothing to change the situation [...and...] the problem only deepens." Environmental problems can be addressed by the "silent majority" in America through green conservatism, "a positive, entrepreneurial, market-based, solutions-oriented, mainstream environmental movement conducive to a pragmatic, nonpartisan public policy." But such a movement is in no way uniquely conservative, unless conservatism is defined as everything to the right of socialism. Who on earth is against solutions-oriented policy? Furthermore the authors' support of nuclear power (page 197) is pro-business but not conservative, because a real conservative never underestimates undesirable scenarios if they involve permanent damage to the country.
At a literal level, the book claims to call for objectivity and non-partisan cooperation at solving environmental problems. Unfortunately, this call lacks credibility. Newt Gingrich has a long partisan history. More importantly, the authors frequently lapse into simplistic partisanship by characterising liberals as doomsday environmentalists hostile to market-based solutions and lacking the common sense and ingenuity of conservatives. This is especially so in the epilogue, where the book abandons the pretence of objectivity and switches to ideological dogma. In the beginning of the book (page 13), regulation is admitted as a necessary evil. By the end of the book, regulation is simply evil. Another example article of anti-government mantras: the failure of Amtrack is uniquely due to it being government-run (this firmly held belief ignores all other factors, the failure of privatised railways of the UK and the success of government-run railways in many other OECD countries).
The book can best be understood as the authors' strong plea to conservatives (or Republicans) to let go of and be done with their disdain for environmentalism because maintaining this disdain would be bad for the earth, a missed opportunity for America and, above all, disastrous for the Republicans in future elections. The book was written in the context of the Republicans having problems at the polls and the set-back of the conservative movement. Nonetheless, the authors are usually well-informed and apparently sincere about their environmentalism. If Gingrich proves his sincerity through non-partisan actions in environmental politics, then his call for non-partisan, constructive cooperation should only be welcomed by all.
The authors occasionally sell ideas based on weak empirical data. The business case for carbon sequestration, obviously favoured by big carbon emitters, has become extremely questionable. The idea that reproductive rates stabilise as the affluence of a society increases is no longer certain (Nature, Mikko Marskyla, University of Pennsylvania). The growth of European carbon emissions from 2000 to 2004 was largely influenced by the entry of ten east-European countries to the European Union in 2002.
The chapters are informally structured around high-level themes (e.g. entrepreneurialism, philanthropy), with many interesting bits of information here and there. Regarding the contract referred to in the title, it is very general and abstract, and probably only used because of the intended association with Gingrich's "Contract with America" of 1994. All of the contract's ten articles ("commitments") are obvious: science should be objective and "sound" (amazing!), government can not solve problems alone, people should cooperate etc. None of the contract's ideas are uniquely conservative, again unless conservative is defined as everything that is not socialist. It certainly does not hurt for more people to learn about reducing, reusing and recycling.
Gingrich wants to win over Republicans. He formulates his text to be pleasing for this audience, especially by way of verbose emphasis of what they like to hear (e.g. government policies can be poor) and concise and qualified admissions about what they do not like to hear (e.g., government is necessary). He does admit that unpleasantness must be addressed (no details), but he couches this in a patriotic reminder of how Americans traditionally unite to face adversity (no details). The authors are correct that an overly pessimistic outlook will not sell: "To inspire others to achieve, we must continue to express optimism." However, optimism without clearly exemplary behaviour is worthless, and exemplary behaviour means radical change for individuals. The authors avoid spelling out the wrenching changes that this means. Surely the reader can accept something more than just feel-good.
Again and again (and again) the reader learns that limited government, tax incentives and "prizes" are better alternatives than any form of regulation. This is quite true in many areas, but dangerously unrealistic for great swaths of environmental areas such as international waters, i.e., about two thirds of the planet's surface area. The authors imply (page 194) that the havoc wreaked by trawling can be solved generally if local environmentalist groups simply group together, "purchase the trawling boats" and "buy out each trawler's business". Most local environmental groups would have difficulty buying out a local canoe rental shop and have no chance against giant fishing concerns.
Many pages of nice sounding examples are given, but nice-sounding examples are not statistics. It's a fine thing to learn that something is being done well by some organisation for some specific issue (e.g., that the State of Massachusetts "prefers" to use environmentally friendly cleaning products), but the reader usually doesn't get sufficient contextual information to know whether substantial problems are solved comprehensively. Thus the abundant examples start as inspirational but end up sounding unconvincing. Somewhere buried in the text (page 96) the authors admit that "some caution is advised, as some of these efforts may be regarded as little more than public relations devices." One heartily agrees with this warning, especially with regards to the automobile and oil corporations. The authors are irritatingly pussy-footing about criticising any specific company. If their optimistic approach excludes the possibility of pointing out failure, then it won't work.
The style is tiresome. Much is written in clichés. The following example is not exceptional: "Our environment's current state represents both a unique challenge and a golden opportunity. If we respond with the ingenuity and diligence consistent with our national heritage and our sense of duty, we will not only resolve our environmental problems, but we will also launch an unprecedented epoch of economic prosperity." Undoubtedly the experienced Gingrich also reverts to this wooden style in order to avoid the risk of bad sounding quotes out of context. The book has a lot of good things to say, but granted the style, it is fortunate that the book is short.
As The Economist has always argued, simple taxation of carbon emissions would be the most efficient answer, but that would be unacceptable for ideologues. So much for being "solution-oriented" and "pragmatic".
|
|
A pledge to the environment, rather than a manifesto
Rating (5)
Date: 2009-05-19
Reading "Contract with the Earth" was a pleasant surprise. I've read a few of Newt's books before. They are all bursting with ideas, but written matter-of-factly and without much style. In comparison, this book is almost poetic in style. The chapters are arranged thematically, and the transitions from paragraph to paragraph are also thematic, which prevents this short book from becoming programmatic, doctrinaire or ideological.
Sure, there are the occasional criticisms of the Bush environmental policy - which, admittedly, was confusing and not well explained - but there is also an appreciation for the conservation efforts of the Bush administration.
In tone, this book is designed as a pledge to the environment, rather than a manifesto. Clearly, Gingrich and Maple are aware that conservatives, in particular, have shut the ears reflexively, everytime the words "envioronment, green or climate change" are mentioned. Gingrich and Maple want to open those ears up, and show that conservatives can participate in the debate about the environment.
Refreshingly, this book has a lot to say to families and children rather than just being addressed to the experts. Thus, the authors recommend that "appreciation of nature," such as visiting zoos, national parks or your backyard, can deliver positive results to the environment, when participation in a high-end carbon trading scheme is more of a plan aimed at Fortune 500 companies.
If you are tired of reading potshots at the Bush administration, scary Armageddon scenarios, or the need to turn down your thermostats and wear a sweater, this book is for you!
|
|
Contract with the Earth
Rating (5)
Date: 2008-11-17
This was a refreshing and insightful book from a political figure with a bipartisan message for us all to appreciate. I got on to this book when listening to an interview of Gingrich on NPR. I am curious if it were not for the timing in fall of 2007, with rise to a high visibility political season, would the interview had taken place. In that interview Gingrich was asked if he is running for President. He said he was not, for the same reason Al Gore is not running. He feels he can accomplish more for the world with regard to the environment as a citizen than he could as President, being encumbered with politics.
What is Gingrich's message? First is unity in the cause. Not just across national party lines but across international lines as well. Second is recognition that we do not have all the facts, in terms of the full balance of the ecosystems of our planet earth. Third is the facts should not be proprietary but rather universally shared. Fourth, is government at all levels and business need to come together with effective participation and policy, in a cooperative posture. Fifth is education of our youth and remedial education of our elders on the individual contributions through consumerism, philanthropy, voting, and life style changes that can lead to a cleaner environment. All this says a collective conscience with one unified goal is essential. The key yet silent word through out the book is balance.
I was somewhat intrigued at a couple byproducts brought about with a collective conscience on the environment... to see the complete review do a keyword search on cigarroomofbooks
|
|
engaging treatise
Rating (4)
Date: 2008-11-15
1 out of 3 customers found this reveiw helpful
This is an interesting look at merging American conservative values with environmentalism. Using the concept of the Contract with America that ironically failed to have any of it points survive, but helped bring the conservatives to power making it a successful manifesto; Newt Gingrich and Terry L. Maple provide ten points to save the environment, but not at the cost of the economy. The key unlike the 1994 tenet is reconciliation with all sides moving past rhetoric into doing the right thing politically while encouraging "compatible partnerships" between business and environmentalists. However some of the hug the other side tone is lost when the authors condemn the "Inconvenient Truth" crowd as being the drivel of activist scientists (taken from the mantra of activist judges as if society would accept as professionals, inactive judges or inactive scientists). Well written and interesting as the writers make a concerned case for saving the planet without destroying business interests, CONTRACT WITH EARTH is an engaging treatise at how the economy and the environment can coexist in harmony, but the book lacks deep fecundity as Newt Gingrich and Terry L. Maple never drill past the surface mantle.
Harriet Klausner
|
|
Same old, same old
Rating (1)
Date: 2008-04-18
1 out of 1 customers found this reveiw helpful
A lot of rehash of old ideas and trite science. I was disappointed, especially since i have been a big fan of Newt's philosophies and politics.
|
(Larger Image)
|
by Newt Gingrich, Terry Maple
ISBN: 0452289920
Binding/Media: Paperback - 256 pages
Condition: Used: Like New
Comments: Sold with pride. This is a previously unread copy pulled from our store shelves. It is rated as like new because it may have light shelf wear.
More Product Infomation
|
Customer Reviews
|
Feel-good eco-reading for political Conservatives
Rating (3)
Date: 2009-08-26
1 out of 1 customers found this reveiw helpful
This book starts with a laudable call for open-mindedness and for a middle ground of cooperation between Conservatives and Liberals, as the terms are understood in contemporary US politics. However, throughout the book this goal is severely compromised and the book ends with some close-minded, idealogical generalisations. Cooperation and problem-solving simply cannot take place if people allow their idealogies to exclude compromise. The book does offer some good ideas and is exceptional for several reasons: (1) it was apparently intended for Republicans as a positioning paper before the 2008 US election and subsequently extended with an epilogue; (2) Newt Gingrich is a well-known senior Republican; and (3) America is facing fundamentally important environmental problems in an age of radical political polarisation. The authors write: "Currently, liberal politicians operate as if they own the [environmental] issue; in their reaction, conservatives appear to disdain it. As the media overreacts to information and generates sensational headlines, mainstream American tunes out.... we are prone to... learned helplessness. We cope by doing nothing to change the situation [...and...] the problem only deepens." Environmental problems can be addressed by the "silent majority" in America through green conservatism, "a positive, entrepreneurial, market-based, solutions-oriented, mainstream environmental movement conducive to a pragmatic, nonpartisan public policy." But such a movement is in no way uniquely conservative, unless conservatism is defined as everything to the right of socialism. Who on earth is against solutions-oriented policy? Furthermore the authors' support of nuclear power (page 197) is pro-business but not conservative, because a real conservative never underestimates undesirable scenarios if they involve permanent damage to the country.
At a literal level, the book claims to call for objectivity and non-partisan cooperation at solving environmental problems. Unfortunately, this call lacks credibility. Newt Gingrich has a long partisan history. More importantly, the authors frequently lapse into simplistic partisanship by characterising liberals as doomsday environmentalists hostile to market-based solutions and lacking the common sense and ingenuity of conservatives. This is especially so in the epilogue, where the book abandons the pretence of objectivity and switches to ideological dogma. In the beginning of the book (page 13), regulation is admitted as a necessary evil. By the end of the book, regulation is simply evil. Another example article of anti-government mantras: the failure of Amtrack is uniquely due to it being government-run (this firmly held belief ignores all other factors, the failure of privatised railways of the UK and the success of government-run railways in many other OECD countries).
The book can best be understood as the authors' strong plea to conservatives (or Republicans) to let go of and be done with their disdain for environmentalism because maintaining this disdain would be bad for the earth, a missed opportunity for America and, above all, disastrous for the Republicans in future elections. The book was written in the context of the Republicans having problems at the polls and the set-back of the conservative movement. Nonetheless, the authors are usually well-informed and apparently sincere about their environmentalism. If Gingrich proves his sincerity through non-partisan actions in environmental politics, then his call for non-partisan, constructive cooperation should only be welcomed by all.
The authors occasionally sell ideas based on weak empirical data. The business case for carbon sequestration, obviously favoured by big carbon emitters, has become extremely questionable. The idea that reproductive rates stabilise as the affluence of a society increases is no longer certain (Nature, Mikko Marskyla, University of Pennsylvania). The growth of European carbon emissions from 2000 to 2004 was largely influenced by the entry of ten east-European countries to the European Union in 2002.
The chapters are informally structured around high-level themes (e.g. entrepreneurialism, philanthropy), with many interesting bits of information here and there. Regarding the contract referred to in the title, it is very general and abstract, and probably only used because of the intended association with Gingrich's "Contract with America" of 1994. All of the contract's ten articles ("commitments") are obvious: science should be objective and "sound" (amazing!), government can not solve problems alone, people should cooperate etc. None of the contract's ideas are uniquely conservative, again unless conservative is defined as everything that is not socialist. It certainly does not hurt for more people to learn about reducing, reusing and recycling.
Gingrich wants to win over Republicans. He formulates his text to be pleasing for this audience, especially by way of verbose emphasis of what they like to hear (e.g. government policies can be poor) and concise and qualified admissions about what they do not like to hear (e.g., government is necessary). He does admit that unpleasantness must be addressed (no details), but he couches this in a patriotic reminder of how Americans traditionally unite to face adversity (no details). The authors are correct that an overly pessimistic outlook will not sell: "To inspire others to achieve, we must continue to express optimism." However, optimism without clearly exemplary behaviour is worthless, and exemplary behaviour means radical change for individuals. The authors avoid spelling out the wrenching changes that this means. Surely the reader can accept something more than just feel-good.
Again and again (and again) the reader learns that limited government, tax incentives and "prizes" are better alternatives than any form of regulation. This is quite true in many areas, but dangerously unrealistic for great swaths of environmental areas such as international waters, i.e., about two thirds of the planet's surface area. The authors imply (page 194) that the havoc wreaked by trawling can be solved generally if local environmentalist groups simply group together, "purchase the trawling boats" and "buy out each trawler's business". Most local environmental groups would have difficulty buying out a local canoe rental shop and have no chance against giant fishing concerns.
Many pages of nice sounding examples are given, but nice-sounding examples are not statistics. It's a fine thing to learn that something is being done well by some organisation for some specific issue (e.g., that the State of Massachusetts "prefers" to use environmentally friendly cleaning products), but the reader usually doesn't get sufficient contextual information to know whether substantial problems are solved comprehensively. Thus the abundant examples start as inspirational but end up sounding unconvincing. Somewhere buried in the text (page 96) the authors admit that "some caution is advised, as some of these efforts may be regarded as little more than public relations devices." One heartily agrees with this warning, especially with regards to the automobile and oil corporations. The authors are irritatingly pussy-footing about criticising any specific company. If their optimistic approach excludes the possibility of pointing out failure, then it won't work.
The style is tiresome. Much is written in clichés. The following example is not exceptional: "Our environment's current state represents both a unique challenge and a golden opportunity. If we respond with the ingenuity and diligence consistent with our national heritage and our sense of duty, we will not only resolve our environmental problems, but we will also launch an unprecedented epoch of economic prosperity." Undoubtedly the experienced Gingrich also reverts to this wooden style in order to avoid the risk of bad sounding quotes out of context. The book has a lot of good things to say, but granted the style, it is fortunate that the book is short.
As The Economist has always argued, simple taxation of carbon emissions would be the most efficient answer, but that would be unacceptable for ideologues. So much for being "solution-oriented" and "pragmatic".
|
|
A pledge to the environment, rather than a manifesto
Rating (5)
Date: 2009-05-19
Reading "Contract with the Earth" was a pleasant surprise. I've read a few of Newt's books before. They are all bursting with ideas, but written matter-of-factly and without much style. In comparison, this book is almost poetic in style. The chapters are arranged thematically, and the transitions from paragraph to paragraph are also thematic, which prevents this short book from becoming programmatic, doctrinaire or ideological.
Sure, there are the occasional criticisms of the Bush environmental policy - which, admittedly, was confusing and not well explained - but there is also an appreciation for the conservation efforts of the Bush administration.
In tone, this book is designed as a pledge to the environment, rather than a manifesto. Clearly, Gingrich and Maple are aware that conservatives, in particular, have shut the ears reflexively, everytime the words "envioronment, green or climate change" are mentioned. Gingrich and Maple want to open those ears up, and show that conservatives can participate in the debate about the environment.
Refreshingly, this book has a lot to say to families and children rather than just being addressed to the experts. Thus, the authors recommend that "appreciation of nature," such as visiting zoos, national parks or your backyard, can deliver positive results to the environment, when participation in a high-end carbon trading scheme is more of a plan aimed at Fortune 500 companies.
If you are tired of reading potshots at the Bush administration, scary Armageddon scenarios, or the need to turn down your thermostats and wear a sweater, this book is for you!
|
|
Contract with the Earth
Rating (5)
Date: 2008-11-17
This was a refreshing and insightful book from a political figure with a bipartisan message for us all to appreciate. I got on to this book when listening to an interview of Gingrich on NPR. I am curious if it were not for the timing in fall of 2007, with rise to a high visibility political season, would the interview had taken place. In that interview Gingrich was asked if he is running for President. He said he was not, for the same reason Al Gore is not running. He feels he can accomplish more for the world with regard to the environment as a citizen than he could as President, being encumbered with politics.
What is Gingrich's message? First is unity in the cause. Not just across national party lines but across international lines as well. Second is recognition that we do not have all the facts, in terms of the full balance of the ecosystems of our planet earth. Third is the facts should not be proprietary but rather universally shared. Fourth, is government at all levels and business need to come together with effective participation and policy, in a cooperative posture. Fifth is education of our youth and remedial education of our elders on the individual contributions through consumerism, philanthropy, voting, and life style changes that can lead to a cleaner environment. All this says a collective conscience with one unified goal is essential. The key yet silent word through out the book is balance.
I was somewhat intrigued at a couple byproducts brought about with a collective conscience on the environment... to see the complete review do a keyword search on cigarroomofbooks
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engaging treatise
Rating (4)
Date: 2008-11-15
1 out of 3 customers found this reveiw helpful
This is an interesting look at merging American conservative values with environmentalism. Using the concept of the Contract with America that ironically failed to have any of it points survive, but helped bring the conservatives to power making it a successful manifesto; Newt Gingrich and Terry L. Maple provide ten points to save the environment, but not at the cost of the economy. The key unlike the 1994 tenet is reconciliation with all sides moving past rhetoric into doing the right thing politically while encouraging "compatible partnerships" between business and environmentalists. However some of the hug the other side tone is lost when the authors condemn the "Inconvenient Truth" crowd as being the drivel of activist scientists (taken from the mantra of activist judges as if society would accept as professionals, inactive judges or inactive scientists). Well written and interesting as the writers make a concerned case for saving the planet without destroying business interests, CONTRACT WITH EARTH is an engaging treatise at how the economy and the environment can coexist in harmony, but the book lacks deep fecundity as Newt Gingrich and Terry L. Maple never drill past the surface mantle.
Harriet Klausner
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Same old, same old
Rating (1)
Date: 2008-04-18
1 out of 1 customers found this reveiw helpful
A lot of rehash of old ideas and trite science. I was disappointed, especially since i have been a big fan of Newt's philosophies and politics.
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by William R. Biggs
ISBN: B0014MYHDO
Binding/Media: Paperback
Condition: Used: Like New
Comments: Sold with pride and shipped with confirmation for US addresses. Gently read copy in like new condition. No reading/ shelf wear.
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by Gayden Wren
ISBN: 0195145143
Binding/Media: Hardcover - 416 pages
Condition: Used: Very Good
Comments: Sold with pride, and in very good condition.
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Customer Reviews
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beware: opinion often masquerading as fact...
Rating (4)
Date: 2007-06-17
6 out of 6 customers found this reveiw helpful
Wren, no doubt, has thoroughly researched his topic. He has lived with these operas and knows them intimately as anyone could. One cannot help but admire the depth of analysis given to several of the Savoy operas. I was particularly impressed by his analysis of the subtle flower imagery running thru Ruddigore, and his work on Gilbert's poetical schemes. His musical analysis falls short most of the time, and betrays a lack of understanding regarding Sullivan's approach (or indeed, theatrical music in general). His attacks do not suffer from the German 19th century-influenced prejudices which affected Gervase Hughes' study of Sullivan's music but often miscontrues meaning and in some cases, misses the joke entirely (yes, Sullivan could joke right along with Gilbert; Gilbert in fact famously remarked "I never had to explain a joke to Sullivan").
Wren decries the simple and lovely strophic setting of Patience's air "Love is a plaintive song," complaining (like some other authors) that Sullivan failed to capture the lyric. Not true. The simple, largely diatonic setting exquistely captures lyric and character's frame of mind-- Patience is simple and straightforward, she is unhappy, confused, and parroting what Angela has led her to think love should be; a full out, through-composed dark aria would be uncalled for, and unconvincing from this character. In the same opera, when we meet Grosvenor in Act I, the music that accompanies his entrance is nearly Wagnerian in its dense chromatic wandering, admirably suited to a trendy, artistic young man of the time. Later, when Grosvenor emerges as "An Everyday Young Man," he sings a song that is literally reduced to two chords-- a subtle joke to be sure, but the humor is evident. Wren applauds Sullivan for relying less on recit in later operas, taking it's lack of use as evidence of compositional maturity (a prejudice similar to Gervase's, in that through-composed opera was somehow philsophically preferable to the recit-aria Italian format) when in fact, Sullivan uses recit only where it serves his purpose-- and doesn't when it is not called for. In Ruddigore, Dame Hannah's first song is interupted by a recit like passage-- to call attention to the lines she utters, when Sullivan could have every easily continued in the verse-form. This surprising and effective touch is evidence of compositional maturity, not a lapse into formula by an undeveloped talent.
The bibliography at the end is thorough but also full of editorializations on each book mentioned, which could have been informative but instead are too subjective.
All this being said, the book is worth reading and is an outstanding resource for the informed analyses of the lyric and historical backgrounds, but it should be complemented by other books on the Savoy operas and certainly an acquaintance with good productions.
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Usher: "What he may say you needn't mind."
Rating (3)
Date: 2005-04-01
8 out of 10 customers found this reveiw helpful
Mr. Wren has written a sometimes interesting and occasionally useful book, one, however, not quite so interesting or so useful as the author fancies it to be.
The bibliography at the back of the book casts a particularly interesting light on the mind of the author. He goes out of his way to slag many or even most of the previous writers in the field, some for lapses of scholarship, some for mere redundancy, some for poor physical layout, some for lack of concern for thematic criticism (i.e., for not writing THIS book), and poor old Leslie Baily for being nice to the memory of Richard D'Oyly Carte.
By his own testimony, Mr. Wren is a director of G&S stage productions. Like many directors, Mr. Wren has a fully matured appreciation of the essential rightness of his opinions, however crackpot. That is to say, his half-baked notions do not always agree with my reasoned conclusions--or maybe it's the other way around.
The book abounds with points suitable for sticking in one's craw. There are nice pieces of logic of almost Gilbertian circularity. The later--but not the latest--Savoy operas are good and the early ones are bad. Why? Because the early ones are not like the later ones. Some things clearly intended not to be amusing are criticized for the grievous sin of not being funny, while some hilarious bits are buried beneath ponderous and gloomy commentary.
It is with his critique of "H.M.S. Pinafore" that Mr. Wren's critical wheels go wobbly. He devotes a lengthy analysis to the "simple eloquence" of Ralph Rackstraw and the management style of Captain Corcoran. Unfortunately, the analysis comes to grief, as Wren points out, on the Captain's use of the word, "Elysian." A lesser man might harbor doubts, but Mr. Wren is a director, so it is clear to him that the error is not his but W. S. Gilbert's. Poor Gilbert simply did not understand his own carefully worked out plan. Mr. Wren displays shocking lack of insight when he dismisses Dick Deadeye as a mere villain. (And later, even worse, he airly defines Katisha in "The Mikado" as a stage dragon and deems her two songs so out of character that they might be omitted from performance. INFAMOUS!)
With "Pricess Ida," Gilbert's "respectful per-version," that is, his witty improvement on Tennyson's dreary old poem, Mr. Wren plunges right off the critical rails. What a load of what some Canadians would call codswallop! (And yes, Mr. Wren, I have read Tennyson, too.) After reading his doom-laden take on "Ida," one trembles before the heart of darkness that Mr. Wren would surely extract from the Marx Brothers' "A Night at the Opera."
Mr. Wren likes spoken dialogue. He dislikes dry recitative. He likes choruses to take an active part in the dramatic structure of a piece. He likes complicated verbal interactions involving several characters at a time. He adores big, concerted finales. He does not care much for parody. These are all perfectly acceptable positions to take when defining a personal taste. However, if they are used as tools of general criticism and applied in a world larger than that of Gilbert and Sullivan, they very promptly disclose that such trifles as "Carmen," "Die Zauberfloete," "Don Giovanni" and "Kiss Me, Kate" are what Wilfred Shadbolt would describe as very dull dogs indeed.
If you are sufficiently interested in G&S to look up this book, by all means acquire it. It is an entertaining and salutary exercise to determine just how often an apparently rational and reasonable man's opinions can go haring off along the wrong path. It also offers a good opportunity for you to formulate your own ideas out of sheer reaction to Mr. Wren's.
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Very insightful and straight to the point
Rating (5)
Date: 2003-06-09
11 out of 12 customers found this reveiw helpful
There is no critical showboating in "A Most Ingenious Paradox", just dead on, revelatory insights presented in a modest, straightforward voice. He really appears to have lived with each of the G & S operas, and got it in his bones. Very little overlap here with other G & S books, so even the most jaded Savoyard will find something fresh in this book.
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A new and interesting slant on the Savoy operas
Rating (5)
Date: 2002-08-08
35 out of 36 customers found this reveiw helpful
In the past, when asked to name the minimal list of books essential to a full understanding and thereby appreciation of the Gilbert & Sullivan operas, I would have cut it down to three. For a study of the social conditions behind Gilbert's satire, there is the long out of print "The World of Gilbert and Sullivan" by W.A. Darlington. For a fairly well balanced discussion of both the scripts and the music, there is "Gilbert & Sullivan Opera: a New Assessment" by Audrey Williamson, which passed into a second edition when I saw it last. Then there is the indispensable single volume edition of "The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan" by Ian Bradley under the aegis of Oxford University Press. Now from that same august publisher comes a volume I might seriously consider as a fourth: "A Most Ingenious Paradox" by Gayden Wren. Having worked most of his life in the theatre and specializing in Gilbert & Sullivan, Wren has come up with the thesis that "Beneath the surface charm of the Savoy operas...lies a powerful thematic core that makes their works effective to this day" (p. 4). Well, so it is with Shakespeare, Shaw, and even Rodgers & Hart. It is the examples offered up by Wren that affords so much surprise and delight. The book is organized into fairly self-contained chapters.The first deals with "Gilbert before Sullivan," the second with "Sullivan before Gilbert." Then we have a chapter for each of the 14 works, followed by a chapter about their careers after "The Grand Duke" and a final one about their "Legacy." There follows an appendix with plot outlines, details about the original "Ruddygore" script and score, notes, an excellent critical bibliography, and index. I think that directors will appreciate the emphasis Wren puts upon the seriousness that underlies some of the works, and not only "Yeomen of the Guard." For example, consider the scene just before the finale between Iolanthe and the Lord Chancellor in which things do become "life or death" and which could easily lead to an unhappy ending with no violence to what has gone before. Of course, the public expected a happy ending with G&S, but that was no reason they had to get one.
His remarks about "The Mikado," although confined to only 15 pages did make me suddenly aware of how Gilbert keeps tipping his hand all through by having the characters call attention to their being in a play: "Japanese don't use pocket-handkerchiefs," "the Japanese equivalent for Hear, hear, hear," "Virtue is triumphant only in theatrical performances," and so on. I part company on him with him on some remarks about "Princess Ida," but his comparison between the opera and the Tennyson original is quite revealing. In general, I kept nodding and thinking about most of his conclusions with "Of course, I should have realized that years ago." The style is friendly, the author taking it for granted, of course, that you know the plots of the operas fairly well to begin with. Yes, I think I might recommend this as the fourth essential book. But please give it a try and let me know what you think. A little postscript would be in order here. Naxos is reissuing at budget prices the old "Martyn Green" G&S sets that used to be available on London and then Richmond mono LPs. Thus far they have added to their catalogue "The Mikado," "HMS Pinafore," "Pirates of Penzance/Trial by Jury," and just this month "The Gondoliers." Anyone intererested in the Wren book would certainly want to own these vintage recordings.
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by Shelly Perelman, Victoria Laurie
ISBN: 0967113172
Binding/Media: Paperback - 222 pages
Condition: Used: Like New
Comments: Sold with pride and shipped with confirmation for US addresses. No publisher marks, no shelf wear.
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An Amazing Journey
Rating (5)
Date: 2005-07-07
4 out of 4 customers found this reveiw helpful
This book took me to a place I have never been before. It touched, moved, and helped me very much to get back on the path. If you are open to taking in all that God has to offer for us in life than this is a must read. The book goes into Shelly's life, how he suffered and over time took himself into the depths of his own hell, to come back and become an amazing image of God. Through his own life and struggles this book will take you to a place of comfort and peace. All I can say is that there a reason I am here, and this book helped me find that purpose.
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by Shelly Perelman, Victoria Laurie
ISBN: 0967113172
Binding/Media: Paperback - 222 pages
Condition: New
Comments: Sold with pride and shipped with confirmation for US addresses. No publisher marks, no shelf wear.
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An Amazing Journey
Rating (5)
Date: 2005-07-07
4 out of 4 customers found this reveiw helpful
This book took me to a place I have never been before. It touched, moved, and helped me very much to get back on the path. If you are open to taking in all that God has to offer for us in life than this is a must read. The book goes into Shelly's life, how he suffered and over time took himself into the depths of his own hell, to come back and become an amazing image of God. Through his own life and struggles this book will take you to a place of comfort and peace. All I can say is that there a reason I am here, and this book helped me find that purpose.
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by Anne Diamond
ISBN: 1843571072
Binding/Media: Paperback - 256 pages
Condition: Used: Like New
Comments: Sold with pride. Gently read copy in like new condition.
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