TIME Devotes Lead Article to Jeffrey Sachs, Economist and Global Summit for Social Responsibility Participant
According to renowned economist Jeffrey Sachs, if we want to resolve the world’s toughest problems, we need to get over our extreme cynicism and get on with looking for global solutions together in new, inclusive ways. We also need to forget that “passe” notion of competing nations for markets, power and resources because the sheer scale and complexity of sustainable development required for our future existence affect us all.
Sachs, who will be guiding part of the discussions at ASAE & The Center’s Global Summit for Social Responsibility April 30-May 2, outlines a comprehensive sustainable development agenda that relies heavily on “the dynamism and creativity of the nongovernmental sector” in his new book, Common Wealth: Economics for a Crowded Planet, and in the lead article of this week’s TIME magazine (“10 Ideas That Are Changing the World”). You might also have caught his appearance this week on Jon Stewart’s The Daily Show.
Sachs urges us all not to underestimate “the power of one.” (Yup, he’s an FOB –Friend of Bono’s.) By studying the problems; engaging with people across cultures, relations and regions; activating our businesses, communities and groups toward sustainable development; and demanding delivery on political promises, “our generation’s greatest challenges [become] our most exciting opportunity,” he concludes. Many people believe Sachs will one day win a Nobel Prize, so we’re thrilled to have him onboard with us.
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Comments
I'm familiar with Sachs from watching PBS' "Commanding Heights: The Battle for the World Economy." I recommend viewing it, especially if you're a 20th century history buff. Parts of it are particularly relevant to 2008, as the Democratic presidential candidates batter NAFTA in pandering to their party's base. Netflix has Commanding Heights on three DVDs and you can also purchase the set through PBS.org. (I should get a royalty check for this plug, eh?)
Posted by: Mark Forstneger | March 21, 2008 2:20 PM
For those of us who have worked inside, or consulting for, the nonprofit sector, this metamorphosis is very welcome. Nonprofit budgets cannot solve the world's problems without more widespread involvement and ownership. Maybe, just maybe, developing nations are growing up.
Posted by: Elaine Fogel | March 21, 2008 9:38 PM