The issue of climate change is the subject of many discussions and opinions. It often seems to be an ideological exchange rather than rooted in reality.

Many seem to feel that if outright denial doesn’t lead to debate, then fatalism or wishful thinking, in the form of faith in as-yet-unproven technology, is much they are willing to compromise on.

The book “Uninhabitable”

This is a book worth reading for anyone interested in a realistic examination of this complicated and controversial subject. The writer, CS Goldsmith, a graduate of Harvard Business School, has been CEO of the insurance industry for 30 years. With this book he brings a concise, analytical perspective to a convoluted topic. He also shows that he is fully capable of presenting this complex subject in brilliant and clearly accessible language.

The unique perspective he brings to this unexpectedly enjoyable read is based on his experience in the insurance industry. Insurance is a business that makes money by consistently accessing risk factors correctly. The author implemented the same risk assessment methodology as the basis for his conclusions. The product of eight years of collecting and organizing hard facts from all disciplines of science, this book is a clearly stated assessment of the future we face.

I found it fascinating to consider this subject from his unique point of view. How much would the insurance industry access to premiums for things like a Malibu beach house over the next 50 years, and why? With each example, he clearly describes the methods used to support his conclusions. At the same time, the author manages to encourage his readers to consider the information and to adopt an informed point of view of their own.

Another thing that made this read intriguing; Studies of it began with the first stirring of life on earth 4 1/2 billion years ago and follow it through at least 20 human ancestors who preceded us before going extinct. He details the factors that led to the mass extinctions that life on Earth has endured five times in the past. The way of writing about each topic is innovative. Throughout the book, he covers the topics in a past, present, and future mode.

His conclusions on the need to transform our carbon-based energy pattern into a greener one are clear. But it’s not the usual finger-pointing kind of analysis that some environmental groups seem to favor. His tone remains firm on his own point of view but open to reason and debate.

The overall goal of the book is not to forecast doom, but rather to point out the incredible benefits that all of humanity could expect from successfully overcoming these challenges. It does not sugarcoat the immensity of the crisis we may face. However, he remains confident that if we meet the challenge head-on, with inspired leadership, hard work and sacrifice, we can find a utopia and take humanity to amazing heights.

For the reader looking for a thought-provoking examination on this topic, one other than the end of the world, doom, and finger-pointing darkness, I highly recommend this read. It will give you the facts, past and present, and leave the reader with the feeling that the future depends on all of us.