The World is Flat, Thomas Friedman
Clint Thomas, 6 Feb., 2006
Ostensibly about globalization, this book by the New York Times staffer, describes in interesting detail our flattening world then goes on to tout a number of 'crises' facing the nation and the world. Friedman quotes many world leaders, business tycoons and ordinary, albeit insightful, individuals in support of his various theses. Those quoted are often personal friends or even family members. It's a very readable book. When I read it a couple of months ago I thought it should be required reading for all parents but particularly congressmen.
It appears, however, that many have read it or at least have become aware of the problems outlined therein. President Bush in his State of the Union speech touched on at least a couple of the same problems--the deteriorating state of science education and research in America and our scary dependence on dwindling fossil fuels. Let's hope he follows through this time. The cover article in this week's Time Magazine (Sun., 5 Feb.) under the banner "Are We Losing Our Edge" is devoted to the threats to our supremacy in scientific and technical innovation.