Introduction
In "Long-Term Thinking for a Short-Sighted World," Jim Brumm explores the human tendency towards shortsightedness and its consequences for our planet and society. The book argues that our inability to think beyond our immediate needs and desires is leading us down a path of unsustainability and potential disaster. However, Brumm also offers hope, suggesting that by adopting a long-term perspective, we can create positive change and build a more sustainable future.
The Nature of Human Shortsightedness
Our Evolutionary Heritage
Brumm begins by explaining that human shortsightedness is deeply rooted in our evolutionary past. Our prehistoric ancestors needed to focus on immediate threats and opportunities to survive, such as finding food and avoiding predators. This myopic view of the world served us well for thousands of years, ensuring our survival as a species.
However, as human civilization has advanced, this inherent shortsightedness has become increasingly problematic. We now face complex, long-term challenges that require us to think beyond our immediate needs and consider the consequences of our actions far into the future.
Historical Examples of Shortsightedness
To illustrate the dangers of shortsighted thinking, Brumm provides several historical examples:
Easter Island: The author describes how the inhabitants of Easter Island depleted their resources, particularly by cutting down all the trees for various purposes, including moving their famous stone statues. This deforestation ultimately led to the collapse of their civilization.
DDT in Borneo: In the 1950s, the World Health Organization (WHO) sprayed DDT in Borneo to combat malaria-carrying mosquitoes. While successful in eliminating the mosquitoes, this action had unforeseen consequences. The pesticide entered the food chain, killing geckos and cats, which led to a population explosion of rats. This, in turn, caused outbreaks of typhus and plague.
These examples demonstrate how well-intentioned but shortsighted solutions can create new, often more severe problems in the long run.
The Clock and Our Perception of Time
Our Obsession with Time
Brumm argues that our modern obsession with time and efficiency reinforces our shortsighted tendencies. We live our lives by the clock, scheduling our days down to the minute and constantly rushing from one task to the next. This focus on immediate deadlines and quick results makes it difficult for us to consider long-term consequences.
The Challenge of Deep Time
The author explains that humans struggle to comprehend "deep time" – periods spanning millions or billions of years. While we can easily understand timescales within our own lifetimes, grasping the age of the Earth (4.6 billion years) or the timeframes involved in geological processes is much more challenging. This limitation in our perception makes it difficult for us to fully appreciate the long-term impacts of our actions on the planet.
The Pressure of Instant Communication
Brumm highlights how modern technology, particularly smartphones and social media, has intensified our short-term focus. He cites a statistic that in 2008, the average US teenager sent or received 2,272 text messages per month – equivalent to one message every 20 minutes, day and night. This constant stream of communication creates pressure for immediate responses and quick decision-making, often at the expense of thoughtful, long-term planning.
The Automobile: A Case Study in Shortsightedness
The Unintended Consequences of Cars
Brumm uses the automobile as a prime example of how shortsighted thinking can lead to far-reaching negative consequences. When cars were first introduced in the late 1800s, they were seen as a revolutionary technology that would provide freedom and convenience. However, little thought was given to their long-term impact on society and the environment.
The Scale of the Problem
The author provides some staggering statistics to illustrate the scale of the automobile's impact:
- As of 2012, there were approximately 270 million cars in the United States alone, accounting for nearly half of all automobiles worldwide.
- The number of lives lost in US car accidents exceeds the total number of US lives lost in all wars the nation has participated in.
Environmental and Social Impacts
Brumm discusses several ways in which cars have negatively affected our world:
Urban sprawl: Cities and towns have been designed around cars, leading to the paving of vast areas of arable land for roads and highways.
Oil dependence: Our reliance on cars has fueled conflicts over oil resources and contributed to environmental degradation through oil extraction and pollution.
Social isolation: Cars create a physical and psychological barrier between people, contributing to the erosion of local communities and fostering behaviors like road rage.
The Importance of Local Businesses
The Benefits of Shopping Local
In contrast to the shortsighted nature of car culture, Brumm argues that local businesses exemplify long-term thinking and community-building. He highlights several advantages of supporting local businesses:
Community investment: Local businesses keep an average of 55 cents of every dollar spent within the community, compared to just 15 cents for chain stores.
Environmental benefits: Strong local economies reduce the need for long-distance shipping and transportation, which helps protect the environment.
Personalized service: Local businesses have a vested interest in satisfying their customers and maintaining a positive reputation in the community.
The Threat of Corporate Dominance
Despite these benefits, Brumm notes that local businesses are under threat from large corporations. As of 2012, 30 percent of all customer spending in the United States went to the top ten mega-retailers. This shift has led to the homogenization of shopping districts and the loss of unique local character in many communities.
Supporting Local Economies
The author encourages readers to actively support their local businesses by:
- Choosing to shop at small, independently-owned stores whenever possible.
- Buying locally-produced goods, especially food items.
- Encouraging friends and family to support local businesses as well.
By taking these actions, individuals can help create stronger, more resilient local economies that are better equipped to face future challenges.
The Debt Crisis and Consumerism
The Shortsightedness of Credit
Brumm identifies the widespread use of credit cards as another example of shortsighted thinking in modern society. He argues that credit cards encourage people to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term financial stability.
Some key statistics he provides include:
- In 2008, the average US credit card holder owned 3.5 cards.
- In 2010, there were over 609 million credit cards in use in the United States.
The Debt Epidemic
This reliance on credit has contributed to a debt crisis in the United States, affecting both individuals and the nation as a whole. As of 2016, the national debt stood at about $3.4 trillion.
The Economic Catch-22
Brumm explains that the current economic system is caught in a difficult position:
- On one hand, consumer spending is necessary to keep the economy growing and prevent job losses.
- On the other hand, the accumulation of debt is unsustainable and could lead to economic collapse in the long term.
Rethinking Our Values
The author suggests that addressing this problem requires a fundamental shift in our values. Instead of pursuing happiness through material consumption, we should focus on things that bring true, long-term fulfillment, such as:
- Cultivating meaningful relationships
- Engaging in our communities
- Prioritizing physical and mental health
- Pursuing personal growth and learning
By realigning our priorities, we can reduce our reliance on debt and create a more sustainable economic system.
The Food Industry and Sustainable Agriculture
The Disconnect from Our Food
Brumm observes that many people, especially in developed countries, have lost touch with the origins of their food. He uses the example of a child who might think food simply comes from the supermarket to illustrate this disconnect.
The Rise of Industrial Agriculture
The author explains how the food industry has become dominated by large corporations focused on short-term profits. This shift has led to the rise of industrial agriculture, characterized by:
- Mono-crop farming
- Factory farming of animals
- Heavy use of pesticides and fertilizers
- Long-distance transportation of food products
The Decline of Small Farms
As a result of these changes, the number of independent farms in the United States decreased by 60 percent between 1950 and 2003. This decline has had significant consequences for rural communities and the environment.
Environmental Impacts
Brumm highlights several environmental problems caused by industrial agriculture:
- Soil degradation: Intensive farming practices deplete soil nutrients and increase erosion.
- Water pollution: Runoff from factory farms and excessive use of fertilizers contaminate water sources.
- Loss of biodiversity: Mono-crop farming reduces habitat for wildlife and decreases genetic diversity in crop species.
The Need for Sustainable Agriculture
To address these issues, the author advocates for a return to small-scale, sustainable farming practices. He argues that small farms are better equipped to:
- Protect and nurture the land
- Produce healthier, more diverse food
- Support local economies
- Reduce the environmental impact of food production
Supporting Sustainable Food Systems
Brumm encourages readers to support sustainable agriculture by:
- Buying produce from local farmers' markets
- Choosing organic and sustainably-produced foods when possible
- Growing their own fruits and vegetables, even in small spaces
- Supporting policies that promote sustainable farming practices
By making these choices, consumers can help create a more sustainable and resilient food system for the future.
The Energy Crisis and Renewable Resources
Our Dependence on Fossil Fuels
Brumm identifies our reliance on fossil fuels as one of the most pressing examples of shortsighted thinking in modern society. He explains that we continue to use non-renewable resources like coal, oil, and natural gas for most of our energy needs, despite knowing that these resources are finite and their use contributes to climate change.
The Urgency of the Situation
The author presents some alarming statistics to illustrate the urgency of the energy crisis:
- Some estimates suggest that at current consumption rates, our oil reserves could be depleted in just 40 years.
- We continue to engage in environmentally destructive practices like fracking and offshore drilling to extract remaining fossil fuel reserves.
The Need for Long-Term Energy Solutions
Brumm argues that addressing the energy crisis requires us to adopt a long-term perspective and invest in renewable energy sources. He discusses several options:
Nuclear power: While capable of producing large amounts of energy, nuclear power comes with significant risks and the long-term problem of radioactive waste disposal.
Solar energy: The author sees this as one of the most promising options, noting that the sun provides clean, unlimited energy.
Wind power: Another renewable option that has seen significant growth in recent years.
Geothermal energy: Harnessing the Earth's internal heat for power generation.
The Potential of Solar Energy
Brumm provides a compelling example of the potential of solar energy:
- If each state in the US built just five square miles of solar paneling and connected them to form an interconnected grid, it could power the entire country.
- While the initial cost would be high (around $6 trillion), this is equivalent to what we would spend on oil in just 8 years at $100 per barrel.
Overcoming Barriers to Renewable Energy
The author acknowledges that transitioning to renewable energy sources faces several challenges:
- Initial costs: Renewable energy infrastructure requires significant upfront investment.
- Political resistance: Fossil fuel industries have significant influence on policy-making.
- Technological limitations: Some renewable technologies still need improvement to be fully competitive with fossil fuels.
Despite these challenges, Brumm argues that the long-term benefits of renewable energy far outweigh the short-term costs and difficulties.
Our Responsibility to the Planet
Learning from Nature
Brumm emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the lessons nature can teach us about sustainability. He points out that natural systems thrive through cycles and balance, not through unlimited growth and consumption.
Key examples include:
- The cycle of day and night
- The changing of seasons
- Mating and migration patterns of animals
These natural cycles demonstrate that infinite growth is impossible and that humans, as part of nature, must learn to live within sustainable limits.
The Power of Individual Action
While the challenges we face may seem overwhelming, Brumm reminds readers that we have the power to create positive change. He encourages individuals to take responsibility for their impact on the planet and to work together to build a more sustainable future.
Some ways individuals can make a difference include:
- Reducing personal consumption and waste
- Supporting sustainable businesses and practices
- Advocating for environmentally-friendly policies
- Educating others about the importance of long-term thinking
The Limitations of Political Solutions
The author cautions against relying solely on political leaders to address long-term challenges. He points out that politicians are often focused on short-term goals, such as winning the next election, rather than implementing policies that may not show benefits for many years.
The Importance of Community Engagement
Brumm emphasizes the need for grassroots action and community involvement in creating sustainable solutions. He provides examples of local initiatives that are making a difference, such as:
- Community gardens and urban farming projects
- Local renewable energy cooperatives
- Sustainable transportation initiatives
- Environmental education programs
By getting involved in these types of projects, individuals can contribute to building more resilient and sustainable communities.
Practical Steps for Long-Term Thinking
Throughout the book, Brumm offers various suggestions for how individuals can adopt a more long-term perspective in their daily lives. Here are some key recommendations:
Mindful consumption: Before making a purchase, consider the long-term impact of the product on your finances and the environment.
Support local businesses: Choose to shop at small, independently-owned stores and buy locally-produced goods when possible.
Reduce reliance on credit: Avoid unnecessary debt and focus on building long-term financial stability.
Eat sustainably: Choose locally-grown, organic foods and reduce meat consumption to support more sustainable agricultural practices.
Conserve energy: Implement energy-saving measures in your home and support renewable energy initiatives.
Engage in your community: Participate in local decision-making processes and support initiatives that promote long-term sustainability.
Educate yourself and others: Stay informed about environmental and social issues, and share your knowledge with friends and family.
Practice patience: Recognize that meaningful change often takes time, and resist the urge for quick fixes or immediate gratification.
Conclusion
In "Long-Term Thinking for a Short-Sighted World," Jim Brumm presents a compelling case for the importance of adopting a long-term perspective in our personal lives and society as a whole. He argues that our natural tendency towards shortsightedness, reinforced by modern technology and consumer culture, has led us to the brink of environmental and social crises.
However, Brumm also offers hope for the future. By learning from nature, supporting sustainable practices, and taking individual responsibility for our actions, we can begin to shift towards a more long-term oriented society. This shift is essential not only for our own well-being but for the health of our planet and the prosperity of future generations.
The author emphasizes that change starts with each of us. By making conscious choices in our daily lives and working together to build more sustainable communities, we can create a positive ripple effect that leads to broader societal change.
Ultimately, Brumm's message is one of empowerment and responsibility. We have the knowledge and the tools to address the challenges we face – what we need now is the wisdom to think beyond our immediate needs and desires, and to act with the long-term future in mind.
As we move forward, it's crucial to remember that our individual actions, when combined, have the power to shape the world we live in. By embracing long-term thinking, we can work towards a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for all.