I did not know who David Suzuki was when I chose to read this book. His name sounded familiar, but I could not place it. A geneticist turned environmentalist sounded right up my alley. And it did not disappoint.
David was a Canadian tv star with his own show on science. And he also had his own radio show. But the real passion he shows is for his non profit organization(The David Suzuki Foundation) and raising awareness for worldwide environmental issues, such as the preservation of the rain forests and global warming.
Not once did he mention epigenetics. Or how a scientist of genetics ended up becoming an environmentalist. The connection was never made, other than his love of the outdoors.
David’s childhood experience as a Japanese Canadian during WWII in Canada was eye opening and a bit horrifying. I was unaware of the camps created for Japanese Canadians during WWII, especially along the coastlines. It is amazing to read how a child sent to a detention camp during WWII, because of where his ancestors came from, can lead a full life and even become an influential figure within that same country. He shows resilience in ways many could not.
The Amazon and Canadian rain forests and working with natives all over the world was a focus throughout his career. Always trying to help the natives empower and educate themselves to make the best decisions for themselves. Sustainability and independence were main themes when he was working with natives from all over the world. He did not want to give them a fish, he wanted to teach them how to fish.
Global warming was the last issue covered in the book and how science is something most people in the world are illiterate on. I agree on global warming being the biggest issue facing the world. However, I never considered the fact that most people are illiterate when it comes to science. And even more concerning is the government officials who make laws based on science are often some of these people. How can government officials, who are versed in law and business, make decisions based on science when they are not even literate in science?
And why is the modern global world not literate in science? Science and technology are the leading influences in our modern lives. Yet, the average person knows more about how to operate a computer and television than they know about science. Why do you suppose this is? And how can we change this?
Great book! I would recommend it.