Tom Wessels, core faculty in environmental studies, in association with The Nature Conservancy and Vermont Earth Institute, will lead discussions throughout October and into November at various Vermont locations in support of his new book, The Myth of Progress: Toward a Sustainable Future.
Mitch Thomashow, former chair of the department, says Wessels writes “so as to challenge his reader to think about the world differently, to empower his readers to ask questions, promote interpretations, and to see new patterns. But in this case he’s expanded his domain so as to include the interrelationships of political economy and ecological systems.”
Tom questions the basic assumptions about what constitutes progress, and the viability of unlimited growth as envisioned by mainstream economists and politicians. Using a combination of synthesized theoretical work, hard science, and illustrative anecdotes, he provides a sharp critique of the status quo, and outlines the kind of paradigm shift required to head off the startling range of global degradation that has already resulted from human activity.
The discussion will introduce people to Wessels’s thought, and inspire them to think and act for themselves. Says Thomashow, “with Tom, you look at a landscape in an entirely new way. Indeed, you feel empowered to ask questions, venture interpretations, and see patterns that reinforce your own learning. Tom Wessels teaches you how to teach yourself.”
Tom Wessels in Vermont:
October 3, Manchester, Vermont, Lincoln Family Home at Hildene, 5:30-7:30 pm
October 8, Burlington, Vermont, Shelburn Farms Coach Barn, 2-4 pm
October 10, Montpelier, Vermont, Noble Hall, Vermont College, 5:30-7:30 pm
October 24, Brattleboro, Vermont, Museum & Art Center, 5:30-7:30 pm
November 5, Middlebury, Vermont, Congregational Church, 2-4 pm
These discussions are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. To register, please email The Nature Conservancy at [email protected]
