Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution--and How It Can Renew America

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Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution--and How It Can Renew America

by Thomas L. Friedman

3.67 · rating details · 4,985 ratings · 1,081 reviews

In this brilliant, essential book, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Thomas L. Friedman speaks to America's urgent need for national renewal and explains how a green revolution can bring about both a sustainable environment and a sustainable America.

Friedman explains how global warming, rapidly growing populations, and the expansion of the world’s middle class thr...more

Hardcover, 438 pages

Published September 8th 2008 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (first published January 1st 2008)

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Oct 11, 2008

Erik rated it

Much as Michael Pollan’s In the Defense of Food was a logical sequel to The Omnivore’s Dilemma, this latest current affairs book by Friedman is the logical next-step after reading The World is Flat, Friedman’s last treatise on the nature of a post-industrial world in which brain-power and a better educated populace will define the future of the world. In this passionately articulated follow-up, Friedman details and argues for a green revolution that needs to take hold of America if it hopes to r...moreMuch as Michael Pollan’s In the Defense of Food was a logical sequel to The Omnivore’s Dilemma, this latest current affairs book by Friedman is the logical next-step after reading The World is Flat, Friedman’s last treatise on the nature of a post-industrial world in which brain-power and a better educated populace will define the future of the world. In this passionately articulated follow-up, Friedman details and argues for a green revolution that needs to take hold of America if it hopes to remain the world’s leader in innovation. He appeals to our sense of pride by stoking our collective ego for being the model of innovation -- rather than admonishing us for our real and imagined ill ways – by vigorously arguing that we can remain number one if we would only put aside short-sighted politics.

Although he is clearly a man that looks at the world with a sense that the glass if half full, one cannot help but think that any denial of man’s impact on the planet – think of VP contender Sarah Palin’s purposeful avoidance of implicating humans as the cause of global warming – will stymie any of the much-needed structural and organizational change that Friedman so passionately argues for. Strategic tax incentives and increased research and development for renewable energy resources that don’t produce CO2, heightened consumer and civic awareness of our dilemma, and well as a more rigorous change in our consumption habits are on his menu of must-dos.

Although his detailed explanations can be long-winded – if he were a politician, fact-checkers would have field-day with his plethora of information -- his ardent and urgent call to action is much needed in this time of shallow “green awareness”. You know what I mean: the increasingly ridiculous commodification of everything labeled “green” so that you can’t tell a phony from the real-deal. As Friedman argues, it will take more than some belt-tightening, but rather some major cognitive dissonance and economic overhaul if we in the industrialized world are to batten down the hatches (so to speak) and fundamentally change our politics so that our economy can change and grow. Which is also saying a lot considering the dismal state our country is in right now. (Can it get any worse? I certainly hope not.)

Even though I would normally feel that much of what Friedman posits would be ignored by the administration that we’ve been putting up with during these last eight years, it’s encouraging to know that he has an ally with the Democratic candidate for the Presidency, Barack Obama. Yes, things can change. And likely will, if current poll trends hold.
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Dec 18, 2008

Hannah rated it

http://www.nypress.com/article-19285-how...

I'm not sure I've ever read a more redundant author. Although Friedman has some great things to say, it's buried under some not-so-great writing. I haven't read his other books, but I think Friedman does better under the limits of newspaper columns: out of the book's 400+ pages, approximately half of those are simply to restate what he said before.
His pop-y, Wiki-citing style is not exactly my thing, either, and the book feels precar...more

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Oct 26, 2008

Ray rated it

· review of another edition

Recommends it for: concerned citizens

Not a quick read to take to the beach on a summer afternoon, but the topic and ideas presented are too important to ignore. People sometimes quickly dismiss books about environmental issues, assuming it will lead to the condemning of science, technology, and societal advances, instead proposing a regression toward a simpler 1800's style lifestyle. What makes the book different to me is that Friedman has researched and described solutions which exist, have been proven, make both environmental a...more

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Feb 19, 2009

Ian rated it

Shelves: own, non-fiction

I haven't finished this book, but I feel like there are a few examples that if I don't get down, I will forget, and they illustrate how I feel about this book well.

First off, I'd like to mention that if this was a fiction book, it would get one star. Having recently ventured into the nonfiction category more and more, and having been so pleased with Naomi Klein, Noam Chomsky, and Bob Woodward, I took a recommendation and bought this hefty little bugger.

What I wasn't expec...moreI haven't finished this book, but I feel like there are a few examples that if I don't get down, I will forget, and they illustrate how I feel about this book well.

First off, I'd like to mention that if this was a fiction book, it would get one star. Having recently ventured into the nonfiction category more and more, and having been so pleased with Naomi Klein, Noam Chomsky, and Bob Woodward, I took a recommendation and bought this hefty little bugger.

What I wasn't expecting is that the style would make a big difference. Like I mentioned, if this was fiction, it would get one star—but as a nonfiction book, at least the information is good. The problem is that Friedman's writing style is so repetitive, boastfully clever, and patronizing, that it's really hard to read.

A couple of quick examples:

"'Green is not simply a new form of generating electric power,' added Rothkopf. 'It is a new form of generating national power—period.'

"Let me repeat that: Green is not simply a new form of generating electric power. It is a new form of generating national power—period."

Now, repetition can be useful in song lyrics and poetry, but even then there's often at least some form of distance between repetitions or a variation. This just made my eyes immediately glaze over. What makes you think I didn't get it the first time?

This sort of patronizing tone is repeated again and again, most notably when he quotes a report on cow's flatulence and belching causing methane build-up. His quote includes helpful brackets after the word "regurgitate[spit-up:]". Now, I know some people aren't college educated. But I really think anyone reading this book is going to already know what regurgitate means.

The other major problem I had was that he really seems to think his clever little turns of phrase are so great that he can use them again and again and again until you want to bash your own face in with a hammer. The name of the book is "Hot, Flat, and Crowded," referring to rising temperature, globalizations of markets, and overpopulation. But whenever he makes a reference to globalization, he feels like he has to say "flattening". It sounds stupid. I'm glad you have a clever title, Tom, but that doesn't mean you have to write in newspeak.

I guess I'll update this once I finish it. Like I said, the info is good, I just find his style personally offensive.(less)

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Mar 16, 2009

brian tanabe rated it

I thought I would have questions about a journalist's ability to effectively write on the subject of sustainability (given that he cut his teeth on the Middle East) -- but that presupposition proved false. I thought perhaps Friedman's attempt would get bogged down by anecdote, too encumbered with trying to prove his point -- but here too he did not fail. And yet in the end I fear the warning bell he wishes to ring will not be heard by enough... or rather will not move enough of us, create enough...more

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Dec 05, 2008

Darrick rated it

Shelves: audio, 2008

In two words; we're screwed.

I had a feeling this was the case but this book really paints a vivid picture of our screw'dness. According to Friedman all the stars really need to align, and fast, in order for us (humans) to reverse global warming and not go extinct. Here's what needs to happen:

1.) The US needs to get our heads out of our pants and start pumping tons of money (both private and public) into green energy.

2.) The US needs to enstate a gas floor so...more

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Oct 27, 2008

Kristianne rated it

With over half of the book dedicated to “How We Move Forward,” we want to believe Thomas Friedman’s newest meta-analysis of the modern world will finally offer up the illusive key to solving the global climate and energy crisis.
Friedman’s vision opposes the fatalism of Huxley and Orwell, insisting that the answer to our predicament is technological innovation. He believes change is possible and should be embraced as a political and economic public relations tactic. This is our opportunity ...more

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Jan 31, 2010

Cerissa rated it

Recommends it for: Beth Borman

I finished this book right before President Obama's State of the Union address. I don't think I could have timed it any better! This book should be mandatory reading for every elected official.

Some excerpts:

“I am convinced that if America becomes the example of a country that takes the lead in developing clean power, energy efficiency, and conservation systems, and grows more productive, healthy, respected, prosperous, competitive, innovative, and secure as a result, man...moreI finished this book right before President Obama's State of the Union address. I don't think I could have timed it any better! This book should be mandatory reading for every elected official.

Some excerpts:

“I am convinced that if America becomes the example of a country that takes the lead in developing clean power, energy efficiency, and conservation systems, and grows more productive, healthy, respected, prosperous, competitive, innovative, and secure as a result, many more countries and many more people around the world will emulate us voluntarily than will ever go green through the compulsion of some global treaty. A truly green America would be more valuable than fifty Kyoto Protocols. Emulation is always more effective than compulsion.”

“Of course, being green at the rhetorical level we’re at right now is not inconsistent with the broadly professed principles of either the Democratic or the Republican party. But implementing a green revolution at speed and scale is going to mean confronting some of the economic, regional, and corporate vested interests that live at the heart of both parties – from farmers in Iowa to coal lobbies in West Virginia. Therefore, without a real clash within the Republican and Democratic parties on this issue, there will be no real green revolution in America.”

“After the 1973-74 oil price shock, California began instituting the highest efficiency standards of any state in the country for buildings and appliances, like refrigerators and air conditioners. The net result: Per capita electricity consumption in California has stayed almost flat for the past thirty years, even though the state’s economy has vastly expanded. The per capita electricity consumption in the rest of the country during this same period is up 50%, according to a study by NRDC. If California’s energy use had grown at the same rate as that of the rest of America’s, says NRDC, about 25,000 additional megawatts’ worth of new generating stations would have been needed – roughly equivalent to fifty large 500-megwatt power plants.”

“Hello, I’m Servern Suzuki [addressing the plenary session at the 1992 Earth Summit:], speaking for ECO – the Environmental Children’s Organization. We are a group of 12 and 13-year-olds trying to make a difference…We raised all the money to come here five thousand miles to tell you adults you must change your ways. Coming up here today, I have no hidden agenda. I am fighting for my future…I am here to speak for all generations to come…I am afraid to go out in the sun now because of the holes in the ozone. I am afraid to breathe the air because I don’t know what chemicals are in it. I used to go fishing in Vancouver, my home, with my dad until just a few years ago we found the fish full of cancers. And now we hear of animals and plants going extinct every day – vanishing forever…All this is happening before our eyes and yet we act as if we have all the time we want and all the solutions, but I want you to realize…You don’t know how to bring back an animal now extinct. And you can’t bring back the forests that once grew where there is now desert…My dad always says, ‘You are what you do, not what you say.’ Well, what you do makes me cry at night. You grown-ups say you love us, but I challenge you. Please make your actions reflect your words. Thank you.”(less)

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Dec 03, 2008

Marit rated it

Shelves: non-fiction

If you know a fair amount already about the current ecological/environmental situation of our world, I recommend skimming if not skipping the entire first half of the book. As for the second half, Friedman has good points about how to change policy, encourage technology, etc. to solve our problems. However, my biggest issue with this book is how talky it was. 100 pages easily could have been trimmed off the four-hundred pages. Friedman likes examples and anectdotes, LOTS of them. I often found t...more

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Feb 14, 2009

Leland rated it

Shelves: economics, environment, india

An intriguing book. An important book. Unfortunately, there is a tone to Friedman's writing which I find preachy and slightly condescending, but there is indeed a great deal of very good information in the book which should be absorbed. Anyone who finds compelling President Obama's views on climate change, economic revitalization, and the possible peril facing us in the near future should humanity fail to address our impact on the planet will find there is a great deal of very specific and point...more

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Sep 23, 2008

Janille rated it

A very intersting read by Thomas Freidman. We always enjoy reading his op-eds and other publications, because he writes so well, even if we may disagree with some of his premises and arguements.

He addresses "energy crisis" concepts of course, and is definately a champion of living "green" as it were, which I think as far as our personal stewardship of the Earth is a pretty darn smart thing. He shares some interesting correlations between the global oil trade a...more

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Jan 20, 2011

Chris rated it

If you want to put yourself in an angry bummed mood, check out this future predictive non-fiction piece. Not entirely sure I bought all of the stuff, but I do believe America has not even begun to get its ass whooped.

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Oct 19, 2008

Cheri rated it

Recommends it for: Anyone who cares about America's Economy

Shelves: science

Every time I hear Thomas Friedman speak, I feel energized and excited. He always has an interesting take on innovation and change, and something of a positive attitude, while never resembling a Dr. Pangloss.
Friedman advocates America dedicating itself to solving environmental problems not just for reasons of stewardship or global warming, but because he fervently believes that environmental innovation can renew the American economy and it's standing in the world. It is a reasonable hyp...more

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Mar 17, 2009

Catherine rated it

I've always liked Thomas Friedman's articles in the New York Times, and I loved his last two books, The Lexus and the Olive Tree, and The World is Flat. This book, if anything, covers even more, and more urgently if a little less optimistically than the last two. Its a very thoughtful and yet panoramic view of how climate and energy use are linked, and the implications for education, investment, jobs, and the economy now and in the future.

One of the most compelling chapters was on En...moreI've always liked Thomas Friedman's articles in the New York Times, and I loved his last two books, The Lexus and the Olive Tree, and The World is Flat. This book, if anything, covers even more, and more urgently if a little less optimistically than the last two. Its a very thoughtful and yet panoramic view of how climate and energy use are linked, and the implications for education, investment, jobs, and the economy now and in the future.

One of the most compelling chapters was on Energy Poverty, the lack of electricity available in Africa and how it impacts kids trying to do their homework, adults trying to get jobs or business trying to persist. A whole continent without electricity in this day and age is a huge detriment, and will only make matters worse and worse in a vicious cycle as these people fall farther behind the rest of the world.

Another fascinating chapter was A Million Noahs, A Million Arks, about the importance of essentially community organizers who are also biodiversity experts who save their little corner of the world by letting the community see how their own survival depends on it.

The Energy-Climate Era, which began in the year 2000 is upon us, and Friedman's view is that this is a make or break pivotal moment in time, and if we don't succeed in meeting the challenge of reducing CO2 loads in the atmosphere quickly by using clean energy sources, there won't be a future economy, or a future mankind, to worry about. His main contention is that everybody doing their little part is no where near enough. Government has to set a price signal on oil that will provide incentives for a quick and massive transition to alternative energy sources.

He sounds optimistic in that he believes it can be done, but sober in that its going to take big actions by big government now to do it. He provides many angles of vision on this problem, as he always does, in a very entertaining, interesting and absorbing way, so I highly recommend the book, especially for those who think we may be able to work our way out of this recession with green jobs. That won't happen without some major policy shifts at the highest levels of our government.

One happy note: as the price of oil decreases, the past would indicate that freedom and democracy in petrodictatorships increases. One can hope for that at least.

I was just reading all the things Barbara Boxer wants to do to save and create jobs. It reminded me of one of the things that Thomas Friedman recommends for the same purpose--effectively making mandatory PG&E's approach for all US utilities, including uniform requirements to place a premium on conservation and alternative energy feed-in (like requiring that a utility accept solar power energy from your home). Our friend Ron Hamilton works for a company that contracts with PG&E to insulate and in other ways save energy for homes and businesses, and PG&E pays them to do that because they are in turn paid or allowed to retain profits by the Public Utility Commission here for conservation efforts. His explanation of how utilities currently work in most cases shows why Californians energy use is so much more efficient than that of any other state. I just assumed every utility company was like PG&E, but evidently not. This is why Obama and others are saying that they can create green jobs and at the same time promote conservation and green energy. Unfortunately, that particular strategy won't have a big impact on California because we're pretty far ahead of most other places.
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Mar 08, 2009

George rated it

I recently read Thomas Friedman’s “The World is Flat” and enjoyed it. In this next book of his, he says that in looking to the future he sees a world that will not only be flat, but also hot and crowded. He focuses on five key problems that he says we are facing now, or will face in the near future, if we do not immediately take steps to reverse the trend. (1.) The growing demand for ever scarcer energy supplies and natural resources; (2.) A massive transfer of wealth to oil-rich countries an...more

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Feb 05, 2009

Bookmarks Magazine added it

It's hard not to admire Thomas Friedman's reporting, even if it sometimes feels like a sales pitch. That's why those who agree with Friedman's analysis were excited about this book: it may not be the best volume available on the subject, but it will encourage millions of people to think about the central role climate change should play in the national discourse. But Bj��orn Lomborg, author of Cool It: The Skeptical Environmentalist's Guide to Global Warming, wrote that Friedman exaggerates the

...more

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Jan 10, 2012

Adam McCain rated it

Shelves: did-not-finish

I only read half of this book.

Easily the worst non fiction book I have read.

The first portion of the book devotes itself to describing the laundry list of Friedman's fears; the link between oil money and radical Islam, Chinese and Indian growth, global warming, and America's stagnant relationship with green energy. Instead of focusing on any one of these topics that some authors spend careers focusing on Friedman decided to take all of them on at once. The effect of this ...more

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Jul 30, 2011

Tina Cipolla added it

This book was very different than The World is Flat but it expands on what Flat means when it meets Hot and Crowded. Where the The World is Flat was very explanatory in nature, this book is more of a polemic. That said, Friedman makes an excellent case that saving the environment is next big economic opportunity for the US and if we don't get to it quickly the Chinese will beat us to it. If you believe in smaller government this book will have virtually nothing to offer you in terms of insigh...more

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Jul 29, 2011

Catherine Woodman rated it

This is the first book of Friedman's that I have read, though I read him regularly in the NYT, and seeing him speak made me like him more rather than less, so I knew we were like thinkers and I respect his smarts. The book is really about why we need to care about the kind of energy we make, how we produce it, how we distribute it, and then make it available for the world--that it is the only option for us, and maybe in innovating these solutions,w e will save ourselves in the world market as w...more

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Jul 28, 2011

Mike Smith rated it

Shelves: non-fiction

This is an important book because, as I understand it, author Thomas Friedman is highly regarded by policy-makers and their ilk. This work is similar to Thomas Homer-Dixon's "The Upside of Down" in its general themes, although I think it is more optimistic, perhaps too optimistic, in our ability to deal with the problems it describes.

The problems range from global warming to energy scarcity to overpopulation. I've read enough books on these topics in the past few years to be convinced ...more

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Mar 12, 2011

Oznasia rated it

Preaching

'…the parallels between what has been happening in the Market and what is happening in Mother Nature are eerie. In both realms, what used to be once-in-a-century events—unusually powerful storms, heat waves, or global financial crises—are now happening with greater and greater frequency, with greater and greater virulence, and the costs of the cleanups are going higher and higher. In both realms industries that benefited from the underpricing of risks—whether they are credit-d...morePreaching

'…the parallels between what has been happening in the Market and what is happening in Mother Nature are eerie. In both realms, what used to be once-in-a-century events—unusually powerful storms, heat waves, or global financial crises—are now happening with greater and greater frequency, with greater and greater virulence, and the costs of the cleanups are going higher and higher. In both realms industries that benefited from the underpricing of risks—whether they are credit-default swaps or carbon emissions—quietly lobbied the political authorities to keep loosening regulations so they could continue to reap large private gains at the expense of the greater public good. In both realms, companies and lobbyists funded and diffused "research" that muddied the waters and confused the public about the real dangers that were building up as a result of this widespread underpricing of risks. Eventually, even the terminology merged: We began to speak about "predatory lending" and "financial tsunamis" and "financial perfect storms" and "market meltdowns." Finally, just as a few farsighted financial experts warned us that the market could experience an extreme meltdown—one much worse than the models predicted—if we continued inflating the credit bubble, so a few farsighted scientists have been warning us about the same thing happening to the natural world if we continue inflating the carbon bubble.'

My friend didn't like this book, rejected it before finishing the first chapter, said it was 'too preachy'. I think we need a few more preachers like this. Unfortunately if no one is listening then we and/or our descendants are simply going to have to suffer the consequences. Perhaps too many are reluctant to give up their present lifestyle. It is easier to label those who give appropriate warnings as being 'preachy' than to change ones lifestyle.

It seems to me that if people won't change their behaviour the only way to bring about change is for governments to take the hard decisions—which is difficult in a democracy; it gets you voted out—and change the culture. I remember when it was a part of Australian culture for people to go out and get drunk and then drive home. I did it myself. Fortunately, we had governments that were prepared to take the hard decisions and now we have a different culture. It is no longer considered acceptable in Australia to drive while drunk. I welcome the time when it is no longer acceptable to spend money we don't have to buy things we don't need so we can impress people we don't really care much about.

Here's another extract that speaks to me: '…what the struggle for freedom was to our parents' generation, the struggle for "sustainability" has to be for the Re-Generation. Sustainability is today's freedom crusade, because the next generation will not live free—will not have the freedom to pursue its economic dreams or to delight in all that nature has to offer—if our approach to the financial world and the natural and not grounded in sustainable values. That lack of sustainability will constrict everything in our lives. It will limit everything we might want to do. Unless we become less dependent on hydrocarbons, and unless we find a balance between the need for markets to be free enough to reward innovation and risk-taking but not so free as to reward recklessness that can destabilise the whole global economy, our lives will be reduced, redacted, and restricted. We will be overwhelmed by all the toxic assets we will produce in the Market and in Mother Nature. It will feel worse than had the Soviet Union won the Cold War, because we and our children will be enslaved by our financial debts and constricted by our ecological debts.'

Preach on Tom.(less)

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May 30, 2010

Aaron rated it

Friedman, who is already well known for an early book entitled The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-First Century, makes an attempt to show how the future status of America, or anyone else, as a superpower will be decided by which nations are the first to take advantage of the growing need for environmentally sound, or green, technology. His basic argument is that this need will lead to demand that will convince both businesses and countries to step up to the plate and produce what i...moreFriedman, who is already well known for an early book entitled The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-First Century, makes an attempt to show how the future status of America, or anyone else, as a superpower will be decided by which nations are the first to take advantage of the growing need for environmentally sound, or green, technology. His basic argument is that this need will lead to demand that will convince both businesses and countries to step up to the plate and produce what is both needed and wanted.

He is a strong supporter of the idea that businesses will succeed, particularly if the governments of the world step in and require certain standards. These standards will basically jump start demand on the part of the consumer as they and the businesses realize how much money can be saved by being green with new technology such as new energy distribution grids that better manage usage throughout the whole day rather than just during peak hours and improving on technologies related to wind, solar, and water power.

Looking back on recent history, Friedman starts his argument by highlighting how petrodollars in the Middle East and other similar countries have helped produce dictatorial states that have more power and influence than their size, population, and history would indicate could be possible. These funds are also (intentionally or unintentionally) routed into the needy pockets of terrorists and other extreme groups.

Friedman also highlights the fact that we are at a turning point. While we do not begrudge up and coming countries like China, India and the rest of the developing world from striving to achieve a Western lifestyle, but the demand this will place on increasingly diminishing energy resources will require us to better produce and manage energy. The future superpowers will be the nations that step forward and become successful in doing just this. China is already doing surprisingly well, largely because the demands of such a large citizen population wanted to have cars and other modern amenities is forcing the government to find alternatives or be overburdened by crushing debt and an inability to meet demand, which could crumble support in the government.

In response, Friedman proposes that America has to consider the idea of a Green Race that would not be unlike the Space Race with Russia during the Twentieth Century. This would make the best use of our scientists and engineers in order to strive to be the first and the best at harnessing environmentally sound resources.

Overall, I thought this was a really interesting look at how government, economics, and the environment interact in ways that most people don't even consider. They also highlight that our current crisis is not just an ecological one. While that is a serious problem in and of itself, Friedman is basically suggesting that a failure to compete in the drive to make better use of energy resources will mean that America will fall behind in its role as leader of the free world. Other countries will become dominant because of the technologies they create and sell.

This really was an incredible examination of the topic. Not everyone can agree with his stance. Firstly, he is a big supporter of the idea of free global markets, which often worries a lot of people, particularly liberals. With that said, much of what he says about a need to find ways to live green lifestyles is true, and supported with valid arguments. I really liked the book, but it is not for everyone.(less)

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May 15, 2010

Kristiana rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: 2010, at-work

"To talk about climate change is not to talk about politics."

Depressed:

I care deeply about the environment. I make changes to my life when I learn new things. I try hard to do my part, I don't try to assume that I can change people's minds, but I do what I can because of what I learn. Maybe I've gotten a little soft around the edges of my convictions, because I don't always try to recycle as much as I can. I don't want to be a burden to those around me. So how d...more

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Apr 21, 2010

Deepak Motiramani rated it

Shelves: global

The Author of the book World is Flat, Thomas Friedman has come up with another revealing book called "Hot, Flat and Crowded". The author who is a reporter with New York Times is a globe trotter and writes on global affairs. His this new book focuses on need of green revolution and why America should take lead in it.

The Author in a lucid style has highlighted the current energy crisis, the Biodiversity issue, Energy poverty and role of emerging countries as well developed co...more

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Mar 13, 2010

Raghu rated it

This book by Friedman is disappointing because of its stale content. The book is written in 2008 but it has nothing new to add to all that has been said and said again on the subject of Global warming, the increasing world population and the advance of technology in the era of Globalization and its positive effect on populations of the world. Friedman laments that America has lost its way since 9/11 and hasn't come to terms with the necessity of acting decisively and positively towards dealing w...more

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Oct 22, 2009

Ariel rated it

Oh my god, if I see another contrived 12-letter acronym or infuriating catchphrase being hammered home for the umpteenth time, I might do something terrible. It's as if Friedman is a too-patient schoolteacher trying to explain the alphabet to a bunch of english majors that he has mistaken for wayward children. While this style is helpful for convincing fence-sitters, perhaps, there are so many anecdotes and repetitions that the book is just way longer than it should be. In fact, I'm not even ...more

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Sep 17, 2009

Mark rated it

I'm a big Tom Friedman fan and he didn't dissapoint with this book.

He tells a great story and instead of total doom and gloom about climate change, economic stagnation, and loss of American leadership in economic power he offers a clear path forward.

I totally agree with his premise that we must come together in the great quest of our time to bring to pass the next great business, and technological revolution - the development of a clean energy infrastructure that is cheap...more

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Aug 25, 2009

Joseph rated it

This is required reading for EVERYONE. I'm serious.

Friedman brilliantly and comprehensively lays out the case for (1) why our current carbon-intensive energy system is the biggest issue facing America and the planet--not just because of climate change, but also for dealing with population growth and poverty, combating fundamentalist militants funded by petro-dictators, preventing the loss of biodiversity, and more--(2) why rallying America to really embrace a fundamental change to o...moreThis is required reading for EVERYONE. I'm serious.

Friedman brilliantly and comprehensively lays out the case for (1) why our current carbon-intensive energy system is the biggest issue facing America and the planet--not just because of climate change, but also for dealing with population growth and poverty, combating fundamentalist militants funded by petro-dictators, preventing the loss of biodiversity, and more--(2) why rallying America to really embrace a fundamental change to our energy system is also the biggest opportunity to improve America--our economy, our competitiveness, our focus on science and education, and our standing in the world--and (3) what that new energy system might look like, and how we might get there--from the right govt policies to the technical implementation of a smart grid to the impact it will have on business and daily life.

If you're anything like me, this book will make you incredibly angry--because the status quo is so damaging and wrong-headed in so many ways, and because our current govt is seemingly so inept, lazy, and corrupt to do anything serious about it--but also incredibly enlightened--about the way the energy system and political environment really works, what effects it's having, and where efforts are already underway (especially in Europe and China) to change the system. I thought I basically knew this stuff already, but I learned a ton, and I think that any educated citizen who cares about the fate of our country and planet has a responsibility to learn more about this vast, complex, and important topic so that we have a chance to help push our leaders in the right direction.

On a personal note: my dad has been telling me (and anyone who will listen) for some time how important this book is--and dad, you were right. Given the book's title and length, I had worried that it might take a lot of time to read and not really tell me that much I didn't already know. Boy was I wrong. And that's why I hope you'll take my word for it that you should read it too!(less)

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Aug 09, 2009

David rated it

Recommends it for: everyone should read it

Hot, Flat, and Crowded by Thomas L. Friedman

This book alternately scares the hell out of me and gives me hope for the possibilities in innovation and science that could one day stem the tide of carbon emissions that are hurting our planet and killing my friends the polar bears.

At the risk of giving it too much credit, this is a book that everyone should read. From the title, “hot” refers to global warming, which, Friedman suggests, is really more like “global weirding”,...moreHot, Flat, and Crowded by Thomas L. Friedman

This book alternately scares the hell out of me and gives me hope for the possibilities in innovation and science that could one day stem the tide of carbon emissions that are hurting our planet and killing my friends the polar bears.

At the risk of giving it too much credit, this is a book that everyone should read. From the title, “hot” refers to global warming, which, Friedman suggests, is really more like “global weirding”, giving rise to droughts in some areas, floods in others, and just a general condition that the planet cannot maintain itself if we do not do something. By “crowded,” he means too many people living like Americans, with our over-consumption and generally wasteful lifestyle (BTW--my 10th grade English teacher tried to get us, as a class, to stop using the term “lifestyle,” as she felt it was somewhat dated and ‘80’s sounding. I think of this anytime I use this word. Any thoughts?). By “flat,” he is referring to the phenomenon of a great number of these people achieving a middle class existence all at the same time, thereby making a great demand on the planet’s resources, creating a need for energy that for the foreseeable future, will continue to be through “dirty” energy sources, like coal. Friedman argues that what we need, as a nation, to lead the world in a systemic change in our energy policy. He argues that we need to make the word “green” go away, only used when someone violates accepted “green” policies, much like the term “civil rights” is now a given, only brought up when violated. He argues that we are a great country with great potential to change the world, yet we lag well behind many of the other countries who have mad e great strides in “Clean” energies, such as solar, wind, etc.

A big strength of this book is Friedman’s ability to use understandable metaphors, to drive his point home. For example, the image that has stuck with me is how he explains C02 emissions: imagine that you are driving your car. For every mile you go, imagine that you are throwing a bag of trash out the window. That is your C02.
When you think of it that way, it does make you want to re-evaluate your habits.

This is an important book that urges change--hard, real change, not just some “205 easy ways to save the Earth” sort of change--to live our lives in what he terms to Energy Climate Era, or ECE. How will we supply the energy needs for a world that is becoming hot, flat, and crowded in such a way that we do not further damage a planet that is in many ways already irreparable? --think of the many animal extinctions and you will know what I mean by “irreparable.”

This is not just an environmental issue. Friedman is not some tree-hugging sissy about it. What he is saying is that whichever nation can take the lead on clean energy for the Energy Climate Era will become the most profitable nation in the world, and help to save the world as well. Isn’t that a win-win?
Read it, read it, read it!

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May 21, 2009

Cheryl rated it

Over all, a great book. I'm already hearing about things that are happening that were mentioned in this book.

Interesting: When he gave energy examples, Colorado played a major part.

Interesting: Here is someone who seriously pursues fixes and options in all directions and disciplines.

Interesting: Lead by taxing. This ties into the battles to keep the legislated mph low for as long as possible.

Interesting: Throw in some international political ...moreOver all, a great book. I'm already hearing about things that are happening that were mentioned in this book.

Interesting: When he gave energy examples, Colorado played a major part.

Interesting: Here is someone who seriously pursues fixes and options in all directions and disciplines.

Interesting: Lead by taxing. This ties into the battles to keep the legislated mph low for as long as possible.

Interesting: Throw in some international political economy and history.

Interesting: He's very much a people person. What can I do individually to make a difference? Can a group of us do something better?

What I didn't like: He throws names and passes judgments on people who had not been convinced of the argument. To me, that just points to those presenting the argument as not presenting strong enough support for their point of view. There is discussion about villifying evil car manufacturers. I'm sorry, but people should be allowed a different point of view.

Now, saying that, what makes me sure of the world heating which was caused by greenhouse gasses? It wouldn't be what was presented here. I believe the best argument would come from groups supported by NASA satelite data, beefed up by analysis of statistical norms. It wouldn't be Al Gore's trip around the world to draw attention to the problems. Yes, he won a Noble Prize. That was salesmanship. His data has been pointed out as flawed. I don't disagree that it was overall a good thing, but he isn't the messiah.

Please note: I am pro clean air, pro clean water, concerned about growing population using up our still abundant resources. I want better mileage. I want solar water heating and energy generation. Heck, at a previous home I had the solar water heating and couldn't say enough good things about it. I am concerned about the Chinese. I've seen Beijing polluted. It's not a pretty picture. I feel the carbon taxing is a very strange solution which just might work. I'm not sure I'm for "it" completely. I think there are real concerns when the Chinese and India aren't held to the the same high standards, and yet this is where you find a lot of the world's population. I disagree with passing guilt to Americans. Bad Americans! What have you done to make the world better? Give me a break. How do you suppose we've been the hegemon? Do we need to stay a hegemon? No, others need to jump in and lead, too. We have led technological Eureka moments. We bailed out many countries after WWII. We've participated if not led the way in world trade. We've promoted individuals' rights here at home and solved some of our own problems.

So, Mr. Friedman, back off on the idea that yours is the only moral way to do things. That is beneath your obviously well-thought ideas.

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About Thomas L. Friedman

Thomas Lauren Friedman is an American journalist. He is an op-ed contributor to The New York Times, whose column appears twice weekly and mainly addresses topics on foreign affairs. Friedman is known for supporting a compromise resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, modernization of the Arab world, environmentalism and globalization. He is considered to be a pluralist and most of his comm...more

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Books by Thomas L. Friedman

The World is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-First Century

The Lexus and the Olive Tree: Understanding Globalization

Longitudes and Attitudes: The World in the Age of Terrorism

That Used to Be Us: How America Fell Behind in the World We Invented--and How We Can Come Back

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“At the end of the day, no amount of investing, no amount of clean electrons, no amount of energy efficiency will save the natural world if we are not paying attention to it - if we are not paying attention to all the things that nature give us for free: clean air, clean water, breathtaking vistas, mountains for skiing, rivers for fishing, oceans for sailing, sunsets for poets, and landscapes for painters. What good is it to have wind-powered lights to brighten the night if you can't see anything green during the day? Just because we can't sell shares in nature doesn't mean it has no value.” — 9 people liked it

“So what am I? I guess I would call myself a sober optimist...If you are not sober about the scale of the challenge, then you are not paying attention. But if you are not an optimist, you have no chance of generating the kind of mass movement needed to achieve the needed scale.” — 3 people liked it

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