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Encyclopedia review - R. Jungk, 1993
Union of international Associations, editor, Encyclopedia of World Problems and Human Potential, third edition, Germany: Saur Verlag and KG, 1991, two volumes, pp. 2049, DM 898.
Note: This review, by Robert Jungk, appeared in the International Social Science Review, no.2, vol. 68, Spring 1993. (translation by Rachel Baxter)
We are all aware that mankind is confronted with a multitude of problems. Now, however, we can also find out how many problems exist and how they interact with one another. This information, drawing on the most recent findings of an extensive assessment of world problems, is published in a unique two-volume work edited by the Union of International Associations (Brussels). The problems which confront our (and probably future) generations are presented in over 2,000 pages and 20,958 keywords, linked by 11,400 crossreferences. The work is the fruit born of the group "Mankind 2000," founded in 1964 by James Wellesley-Wesley in London, whose aim was to help solve or alleviate the growing threat of a world crisis. The latest edition of this compilation highlights the fact that the number of world problems has risen rather than sunk over the years. From this starting point the editors were convinced that the third edition, besides listing and describing internationally recognized problems, should also look closely at why so little has been done to solve them. The work takes a disinterested stance, showing how problems remain unsolved, not only because of the powerlessness of those affected, but also because of their diffidence. It does not neglect to emphasize, however, that the blame for this attitude lies with a one sided, simplistic approach, which does not take into account the complexities of problem solving. The Encyclopedia of World Problems and Human Potential introduces the user gently to this highly unsatisfactory state of world affairs, providing him with an improved insight into the many contradictions in which world problems are ensnarled, and the reasons they have come about. The user will, however, also find highly encouraging examples of strategies for problem-solving. The work shows clearly that, for nearly every attempt to solve a problem, a new problem is created and that there is no single "positive force" which can solve all problems. However, the constant tension between positive and negative factors creates energy, and this should be directed toward positive problem solving. The insight and stimuli to be found in these two volumes should be made accessible to as many people as possible. The unavoidably high price (almost DM 1,000), which has to be set by a brave and commendable publisher, poses a problem of a different kind, which only financial support from public sources could solve. If political bodies would really like to see citizens actively doing something about world problems the Encyclopedia of World Problems and Human Potential is the educational work which will give them the means to this end.
Robert Jungk |
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