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Spirited Book Talk at Ardenwood School

By Shirley Gilbert

Ten participants were thoroughly engrossed and fascinated with the Hot, Flat and Crowded discussion themes centering on the need for new and cheaper energy alternatives and the need for national renewal discussed in Friedman’s book.

The book talk took place at Fremont’s Ardenwood School and was sponsored by the school’s PTA.   It was held from 7 to 8:00 p.m. on March 29.

Some Ardenwood parents attended the get-together along with AAUW Fremont branch members.   The school’s principal, Paula Rugg, was an active participant in the discussion.

AAUW’s Kathy Bray very capably led the discussion and stimulated a flood of lively debate and conversation.

Kathy began the discussion session by asking attendees to explain what the Hot, Flat and Crowded meant in the title.

Here are some of the perspectives from members and parents that came up during the session:

• Population growth was a subject of much discussion.  Some felt that growth, while becoming a challenge, was also a sign that medical breakthroughs allowed people to live longer.

• Many felt, however, that the next generation would not live as long as the current generation given the type of diet young people indulge in and the growing number of asthma sufferers, ADD and high cholesterol as a result of diet.

• The word “flat” refers to the rise of the middle class and some said that it was technology that helped raise the standard of living around the world.

• There was discussion of Friedman’s postulate that as fuel prices rise democracy in the fuel-rich countries diminishes.  Someone mentioned that Friedman contends that the collapse of the Soviet Union was due to the fact that oil prices dropped.

• Eating locally was applauded by the group since it cost so much in energy to get food from distant shores to us.

• We discussed the state of innovation and the economy in America.   One participant felt that we should bring back manufacturing to California – it would bolster the economy appreciably.  Another added that California’s real strength was innovation and introducing exciting new ideas and products, and that was the way to renew the economy – especially ideas of clean technology which is what Friedman is touting in his book.

• Finally, Kathy Bray handed out a discussion sheet that asked the audience to fill out what we are doing now to be green, what we should commit to do in the future, and what we think national leadership should do.  Some mentioned buying a hybrid car, others said they would eat more food locally or vote for a green politician.  Many felt leadership should put more taxes on gasoline and use that money to find alternative sources.   Some felt we should put more money into R & D to realize Friedman’s dream.  Less taxes came up and rewards for energy efficient behaviors were also mentioned.

All in all, many left determined to do something, and said the book’s ideas made them realize how important these ideas are for our country and our way of life.

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