How to Save the World (without annoying everyone)

How Not to Save the World (without annoying everyone) is of course an ironic title for this book, as it’s actually about saving the world! But bringing people with you, which usually means not telling them what you’re doing!

Greta Thunberg does (contrary to what some critics say) know her science. But many people have become irked by climate campaigners shouting and berating others, and however much she tells Trump off, he is not going to listen.

He probably won’t listen to anyone at all anyway, but there could be some business leaders and politicians who might, if we treat them with special care and attention! And as it’s the planet at stake, that’s a very good thing to do!

In this book, the author offers hope for those who want to change the world, but wonder if there’s any point trying, with so much apathy, climate science denial and lack of empathy towards animals and war victims.

The honest truth is that sometimes we get so passionate and angry, we don’t see that perhaps we come across as self-righteous, and that’s just the kind of behaviour (preachy vegan?) that puts people off.

Also found in religion, the politics of ‘I am better than you, and will show you how to act’ has most people running in the opposite direction. You can’t convince others, once you’ve alienated them.

About the Author

Anthea Lawson has campaigned for over 30 years on ending the arms trade and tax loopholes, and even launched a campaign for transparency on company ownership, which resulted in dozens of countries changing the law.

A previous journalist for The Times newspaper, she has also worked with many international campaign  groups including Amnesty International.