Book Review
Robert and I have read “The Web of Meaning: Integrating Science and Traditional Wisdom to Find Our Place in the Universe” by Jeremy Lent, following a recommendation by Kevin Treston. The author is an English writer and speaker, described by Guardian journalist George Monbiot as “one of the greatest thinkers of our age”.
Lent explores humanity’s age-old questions – Who am I? Why am I? How should I live? He draws extensively on ancient Chinese wisdom, Confucianism and Taoism, the wisdom of indigenous spirituality and the findings of modern science. He demonstrates that we are all interconnected, with each other and the planet. Reading the book, Robert couldn’t help but see the underlying themes developed by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, but his work is only mentioned in passing.
Lent’s thesis is that, at its current trajectory, humanity is headed for catastrophe. However, if we are able to develop a new worldview, one based on sturdy foundations, we may be able to avoid the inevitable decline. He reviews the state of the world, developments in science and technology and our cultural paradigms which have led to the current situation. In the final chapters, he outlines the changes that humanity needs to make, encouraging each of us to “do our bit”.
The book informs. It contains many quotable quotes. The book also challenges one’s thinking. I recommend it to anyone who is concerned about the direction of humanity and wanting to contribute to our survival as a species and a planet.
Comentarios