Product Description

In this detailed economic investigation of sustainable development, a noted professor of economics argues that many of the alarms commonly sounded by environmentalists are, in fact, unfounded, and that current sustainable development policies should be reconsidered in light of their effects on the earth's human population, such as increased poverty and environmental degradation in developing countries. In a rare balanced counterpoint to popular sustainable development rhetoric, Professor Beckerman forces policy makers to consider whether future generations have rights that morally constrain and trump the claims of those alive today, particularly the masses of people living in dire poverty, arguing that the current sustainable development program is a menace to the prosperity and freedom of both current and future generations.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #298113 in Books
• Published on: 2002-12-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 130 pages

Review
"Sustainable development has become a shield for special-interest arguments. Beckerman's careful critique points out [its] crucial ethical and economic shortcomings." -- P.J. Hill, chair of economics, Wheaton College. "Advocates of 'sustainable development' are unlikely to be convinced by all these claims; but they will learn a great deal." -- Cass R. Sunstein, Distinguished Service Professor, law school and department of political science, University of Chicago. "Anyone who believes that 'sustainable development' is a meaningful intellectual construct needs to read this clear and concise book." -- Robert Nelson, professor of public affairs, University of Maryland. "We now have an excellent book which carefully examines [the philosophical and scientific underpinnings of 'sustainable development.']" -- Donald H. Stedman, professor of chemistry, University of Denver. "Wilfred Beckerman brings wisdom and wit to his examination of major themes found in today's environmental policy." -- Bruce Yandle, Alumni Distinguished Professor of Economics, Clemson University.

Bruce Yandle, Alumni Distinguished Professor of Economics, Clemson University
"Wilfred Beckerman brings wisdom and wit to his examination of major themes found in today’s environmental policy."

P.J. Hill, chair of economics, Wheaton College
"Beckerman’s careful critique points out [sustainable development's] crucial ethical and economic shortcomings."

Customer Reviews

Concise analysis of current global issues
I picked this book up after reading State of Fearby Michael Crichton, it was listed in the back of his book.

It only has 96 pages but, manages to pack a lot in those pages. Well written too and I found it easy to understand.

It gives a good definition of sustainable development looking at its development over the years. Also, a very useful critical look exploring the flaws in the sustainable development arguments. I've not come across that before.

Good explanation and analysis of The Precautionary Principle in a similar vein.

The author also covers Energy, Climate Change and Resources presenting a compelling argument.