The Better World Handbook: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

by Ellis Jones and Brett Johnson

Book Overview

The definitive guide for people wanting to make a positive difference in the world.

Specifically designed to reach people who normally would not consider themselves activists, The Better World Handbook is directed toward those who care about creating a more just, sustainable, and socially responsible world but don't know where to begin. Substantially updated, this revised bestseller now contains more recent information on global problems,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0865715750
• ISBN13: 9780865715752
• Release Date: February 2007
• Publisher: New Catalyst Books
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 1.12 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.2" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

The Social Justice Bible

Most of us want to do what is right but lack the proper information to realize our deepest values in action. We want to save the rainforest, purchase products that are ecologically sound, end war, famine, and every other ill that plagues humanity. However, we lack a clear understanding of how our everyday actions shape the world. This highly informative book will help you express your values in action. The "challenges" this book outlines include: economic inequality, Third World debt, corporate sweatshops, war, militarization, the death penalty, media violence, natural resource depletion, air pollution and climate change, ecosystem destruction, overpopulation, lack of democracy, money in politics, media monopoly, inequality of women, racism, heterosexism, inadequate hHealth care, prisons, advertising overload, commercialization of childhood, materialism and overconsumption, fragmented communities, and finally a certain loss of our humanity. Not to worry, though, there is no reason for cynicism. The authors are young, vibrant, and optimistic about social change. The is no pessimist's rant. In fact, section one, "the cycle of cynicism," actually deals this problem head on, offering many hopeful alternatives. The rest of the book is action-oriented. Included are hundreds of small things we can implement in our everyday life: including pracical advice on banking and investing, shopping, food, personal lifestyle choices, friends and family, community, home, work, media, politics, travel, and involvement with organizations. The variety and quality of the recommendations show extreme breadth of research and awareness on the part of the authors. The amount of references is staggering: including links to organizations, further reading suggestions, alternative media venues and action allert email lists. By far and away the most practical and informative resource available for those interested in living an ecologically and socially ethical life, "The Better World Handbook" is nothing short of a bible for the new millennium. Pick up a copy and start living in accord with your values today.

A great idea

This is a great reference guide to help us ordinary folks be responsible consumers. The research has been done for us, now all we have to do is use it. Another reviewer called this book stupid, but I very much disagree. Little changes, big changes -- they are all working toward a healthy goal. Buy this book and share it with friends!

One-of-a-kind guide

Written by sociology instructors Ellis Jones Ph.D., Ross Haenfler Ph.D. and Brett Johnson Ph.D., The Better World Handbook: Small Changes That Make A Big Difference is a guide for ordinary people to taking steps in their lives that help contribute to big changes for the better worldwide. Chapters cover how to make a difference by choosing the right bank, buying groceries that minimize negative environmental impact, building strong relationships among friends and family, fostering a socially responsible workplace, voting and getting involved in politics, using alternative forms of transportation and reducing driving to use as little gasoline as reasonably possible, how to get involved in an organization espousing a cause one cares about, and much more. Handy quick-reference icons, numerous online resources, extensive notes, a helpful checklist, and an index round out this one-of-a-kind guide to not only improving oneself, but also improving the world at large. Highly recommended.

A much needed new edition of the greatest guide for those wanting to make a difference!

I've owned the previous version of this book for over 3 years now and have been eagerly anticipating this new version. This handy guide is inspiring and amazingly practical at the same time. These experts have done the leg work to find out what normal people can do in every aspect of their lives to make a better world. If you are wondering how you can better live out your values in the way you work, spend time with family, care for the environment, involve yoursesf in politics and community, shop, and much more, this book is a must have.

The book to change the world-- and your life.

Many of us feel we want to improve the world. But it's difficult to know where to begin, or how our actions can make a difference. The Better World Handbook is an excellent first step to a better life, and a better world. Broken up into chapters as diverse as Relationships, Body Care, and Finance, this book will help you change your outlook on life. It will feed your soul, and help the Earth.