500 Ways to Change the World

by Global Ideas Bank

Introduces hundreds of inspirational ideas and suggestions on how to implement social change, covering such areas as economics and business, environment and ecology, relationships and spirituality, crime and the law, children and education, and more. Original. 50,000 first printing.

Genres: Nonfiction

400 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a different edition but only one came up…

I like this book. It has some good, simple ideas that people can easily implement (e.g. have tea with people of different faiths), some that take more doing (e.g. restoring habitat links - which is being done by ENGOs and volunteers), and some that are much bigger (e.g. reforming national/international government policies/laws). However, whether an idea is practical or possible for an individual reader, it is always interesting and usually accompanied by an example where it has been done in the world.

It is very encouraging to learn the stories of people/organizations implementing world-changing ideas, and to know that everyone has an opportunity to make a difference.

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved reading this book, filled with ideas for making the world a better place, ranging from the borderline absurd to ideas so wonderful I wondered why they are not implemented right now. Ideas grapple with housing, work, education, crime, politics, war, transportation, health, the environment. Here are some samples, randomly selected: Throw an unemployment show to create confidence. Paint your tools pink to put off petty criminals. Give vouchers to students to finance creative projects. Customize cars with a happy horn for thanking.

You get the idea. Some clever, some wacky.

And number 36? A clever, somewhat wacky idea called Bookcrossing.

[C.D. Mattocks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is really good for environmentalists also. Again, it is not a novel, but rather a list of things to do for the weekend or fun things to try with your family at home. The vibe stays positive, and has many ideas from incitive individuals as well as organizations across the world. I enjoyed it..

[The · Rating 3 out of 5]

some interesting ideas, some filler.

[Atiya]

If you want ideas about social entrepreneurship, this book can help. It also lets you in on whats going on around the globe, how people's lives are being change by intentional kindess/thoughtfulness.