Reviewed by CANREADS
Self-induced global catastrophe looms in Our Global Crisis by Brian D. McLean. In this
timely and thought-provoking work, McLean delivers a powerful critique on humanity’s reckless path toward self-destruction. With a bold central message—“We’ll Never Run Out!”—he dismantles the dangerous myth of infinite resources, exposing the flaws that have shaped global civilization. Through vivid historical examples, McLean demonstrates how past environmental misuses have resulted in societal and ecological collapse, shedding light on the dire consequences of our unsustainable practices. A must-read for those concerned about our planet’s future, Our Global Crisis offers a fresh and uncompromising take on global affairs and sustainability.
While McLean’s style deviates from the concise format of many modern non-fiction texts, he channels the depth and ambition of classic historical works, building a powerful argument through detailed narratives. Compiled and written over an astounding twenty-two years, Our Global Crisis is a monumental examination of sustainability and its implications. Readers who appreciate deep research and extreme detail will find McLean’s dedication compelling. Though occasionally long-winded, his analysis demonstrates a level of scholarship rarely seen in contemporary discourse. His detailed digressions may challenge readers seeking a more focused and streamlined narrative. Further, the citation consistency fluctuates—some chapters are well-supported by historical sources, while others lack historiographical accounts when they matter most. The first chapter excels in historical sourcing but omits rich contemporary commentary on the passenger pigeon’s extinction. Despite this, for those who value complex, logical argumentation and a deep dive into the interconnected forces shaping our future, Our Global Crisis is an essential read.
The strongest sections in Our Global Crisis are the opening case studies—one ecological and one anthropological—that set the stage for the author’s broader theorization of an ideal civilization. McLean’s chapter on the extinction of the passenger pigeon, in particular, stands out as a poignant example of anthropogenic destruction and its lasting legacy. It’s a powerful, tragic story that embodies McLean’s larger critique of humanity’s disregard for nature’s fragile balance. Bold, unflinching, and deeply researched, Our Global Crisis is a wake-up call to humanity. McLean’s work forces readers to confront the devastating consequences of our actions—and the urgent need for change. With the audacity and vision of great thinkers like Marx, McLean lays out a compelling roadmap for tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.
A gripping, necessary read for anyone who dares to ask: What happens when we finally run out?
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