Much of the worlds population has seen dramatic positive change over the past few centuries; our diseases get treated and many of us have enough to live comfortable lives. <\/p>\n
We are living in the Land of Plenty; a place people before us could only imagine in their utopian dreams. But where do we go from here? <\/p>\n
Rutger Bregman, the 28-year-old Dutch historian, wants universal basic income, a 15-hour working week, and open borders. These are the goal-posts for his new utopia, set forth in this book. <\/p>\n
Bregman has many tightly-spun arguments, case studies, and statistics to support giving people free money. In 2009, 13 homeless men in London were each given 3,000 as part of an experiment. After a year and a half, all of them had used the money in positive ways, ultimately saving social services money. <\/p>\n
The arguments for shorter work weeks and open borders are less developed, but Bregmans account of global economic history is impressive. <\/p>\n
He treats his topic with an accessible style and touch of humour, so while Utopia For Realists often convinces, it always engages. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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Here is the original post: <\/p>\n
Book Review: Utopia For Realists: And How We Can Get There by Rutger Bregman - Press and Journal<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Much of the worlds population has seen dramatic positive change over the past few centuries; our diseases get treated and many of us have enough to live comfortable lives. Continue reading