THE BIG CHANGE

by Max Nicholson ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 22, 1973

Nicholson, author of The Environmental Revolution, was an early advocate of ecological rationality. This book unfortunately falls into the after-dinner-speech genre. It recommends a ""comprehensive science-based approach to promoting human fulfillment"" and a ""harmony-oriented"" society. Citizens' groups should push measures like ""creativity stipends,"" and act to expose the private sins of self-righteous opponents of birth control. The book is full of vague pronouncements about genetics and population growth, some of which are downright dubious (""freed from plague and famine, men and women start over-reproducing"" -- but there's nothing about actual historical trends, including the correlation of prosperity with smaller families). Nicholson suggests permitting parenthood only for those most willing and able, then training them in their duties. He makes this plan sound wholesome and jolly, but does it really jibe with his advocacy of freedom? Also his discussion of the U.S. population is obsolete, inasmuch as zero growth has already arrived. A flabby contribution, especially since ecology-minded readers, having grown more selective, now demand greater rigor.

Pub Date: Oct. 22, 1973

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: McGraw-Hill

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1973

Categories: NONFICTION