Apocalypse Not: Science, Economics, and Environmentalism

ISBN-10: 1882577043
ISBN-13: 9781882577040
Series: Apocalypse Not
Pages: 139
Language: English
Published: 1993
Publisher: Cato Institute
Authors: Ben W. Bolch, Harold Lyons

Description

What is likely to kill off the human race first? Overpopulation? Global warming? Ozone depletion? Chemicals and insecticides? Would you believe none of these? Drawing on scientific evidence, Ben Bolch and Harold Lyons, an economist and a chemist, show that the prophets of apocalyptic doom mislead and scare the public with their warnings of impending catastrophes. Apocalypse Not debunks the alleged global threats to mankind, as well as the scares about asbestos and radon. It fosters respect for calm, objective science, while showing that the doomsday lobbyists exploit ignorance and cause hysteria. Bolch and Lyons go on to show that, contrary to the beliefs of some environmentalists, modern society and the growth in population do not threaten our quality of life. In fact, science and industry have enabled more people to live longer, healthier lives than ever before. Resources are cheaper and more plentiful than anytime in history. In light of those facts, the authors take up the perplexing question of why the environmental movement, with its apparent death wish, has been able to persuade so many people that the human race is doomed. Their answer to that question could help turn the tide that threatens to undo the industrial and scientific revolutions. This book is the book that will restore good sense to thinking about the environment.