In "New World New Mind," Robert Ornstein and Paul Ehrlich argue that our evolutionary preferences for noticing immediate and dramatic events are maladapted for addressing modern, slow-brewing crises like climate change and resource depletion. This article explores whether their perspective is too narrow and alarmist for today's complex societal issues.
Ornstein and Ehrlich suggest that our ancestors' survival on the savannah shaped our psychological focus towards immediate threats, such as a predator's presence, which was crucial for survival. This evolutionary trait, they argue, persists today, manifesting in our attraction to dramatic and sensational news. This preference is continually exploited by media outlets to capture attention and increase ratings.
However, the authors contend that these traits are less beneficial in our current environment, where the threats are not wild animals but slow-moving and complex issues like:
These issues require a more nuanced and intellectual approach rather than a simple fight-or-flight response. Our focus on the immediate may hinder our ability to address these creeping problems effectively.
Ornstein and Ehrlich identify two key psychological preferences:
While these traits can be linked to certain personality types, such as those identified in the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), they argue that these are not the only traits at play in modern humans. Many people are also capable of intuitive and logical thinking, which is crucial for tackling global and abstract challenges.
The authors discuss how large-scale statistics, such as those related to poverty or mortality, can lead to desensitization. They contrast this with the empathetic responses elicited by individual stories of suffering, citing the (possibly apocryphal) quote attributed to Mother Teresa: "If I look at the mass, I will never act. If I look at the one, I will."
Critics of Ornstein and Ehrlich might argue that by focusing primarily on two psychological tendencies, the authors underestimate the full spectrum of human cognitive abilities. Many individuals and organizations are actively addressing the very issues highlighted by the authors, employing both emotional empathy and logical strategies.
The authors also discuss how human behavior adapts to environmental and cultural shifts, albeit slowly. They use historical shifts in societal values and roles to illustrate how human behavior evolves over time in response to changing circumstances.
Paul Ehrlich, co-author of "New World New Mind," is also known for his controversial book "The Population Bomb," which has been criticized for its alarmist tone. Critics argue that such alarmism can overshadow rational discourse and pragmatic solutions to population and environmental issues.
While Ornstein and Ehrlich raise valid concerns about the limitations of our evolutionary predispositions, it is also clear that humans possess a remarkable capacity for adaptation and problem-solving. Addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century will require a balanced approach that includes both immediate emotional engagement and long-term strategic planning. The ongoing efforts of numerous NGOs, researchers, and policymakers are testament to our ability to tackle these issues head-on.
In conclusion, while "New World New Mind" contributes significantly to the discussion on human perception and its implications for modern challenges, a more balanced view that recognizes the full range of human capabilities would provide a more comprehensive understanding and broader appeal.
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