Customer Reviews

The Conundrum

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David Owen writes clearly, concisely, and insightfully about environmental challenges and the inadequacy of most proposed remedies. Owen explains the direction in which a society would have to move to become truly "green" (think NYC, not Vermont) and he also candidly admits that most people--including him and his wife--do not choose to live in those ways. Mainstream environmental beliefs and practices are examined, and Owen argues that many are either less helpful than widely believed or counterproductive. Research is complemented by anecdotes, including personal revelations that underscore Owen's appreciation for the difficulties involved in attempting to persuade (or coerce) people into making significant lifestyle changes, let alone genuine sacrifices. Though short on practical solutions, this book is highly recommended for anyone interested in considering the complexities encountered when confronting environmental challenges to do good rather than merely to feel good.

David Owen does a fantastic job of highlighting some of the logical errors people choose to make regarding their energy use. He discusses the full-spectrum of decisions all the way from an individual's daily drive to work all the way to the grand plans of governments to make "green" transportation networks and cities.

Each of the chapters presents a different approach to the same fundamental problem: energy efficiency is not a means to reduce overall energy use. He takes a scientific approach using data and examples from the real world, and adds in his unique humor and anecdotes to make the painful truth easier to digest.

It's definitely worth a read and serious consideration, but if you choose to pick it up, be willing to be objective because it challenges some of the basic assumptions and beliefs of average Americans.

This is a very well reasoned book. At the same time it is honest, presenting both counter arguments, contrary examples, and flaws in the verifiability of his arguments. There's a lot of information in here on a wide variety of topics. I like to think of myself as a contrarian when it comes to environmental issues, but this book challenged even me. I will be spending a long time thinking about this book and how it is going to affect me.

I don't agree with everything he says, but if you care at all about the environment you owe it to yourself and the environment to at least read this book and think about it.

Is it not true, our real concerns are so many that it is wishful thinking to hope for
solutions anytime soon? Here is a book written by an author who has combined research
with imagination to produce a very thought provoking suggestive commentary on the future.

He does make useful points as to how it is now and to how it could become for the Earth's
Environment.

Warrants a read!

Dag Stomberg