Life: The Story So Far

The first volume in an ambitious 30-part series that takes an intimate look at the effects of a newly global economy on an international cross-section of regular people, Life wonders whether ordinary folks can ever hope to share in the wealth generated by globalization when the three richest individuals on planet Earth are currently worth more than the GNP of the 14 poorest countries. Originally produced for BBC Worldwide Television, Life's profiles combine broadcast-quality footage with commentary from international cultural commentators such as Robert Reich, Noam Chomsky and Francis Fukuyama. The Story So Far offers an overview of globalization in action, looking at a diverse range of topics, such as jobs moving to Asia or health care in rural African communities, that are treated in depth in subsequent volumes. The general theme, that we as global citizens have a social responsibility to ensure that greater opportunities worldwide do not lead to more oppression, is coupled with the reminder that we have the knowledge and wherewithal to actually shape the rules of the future by our thoughtful and responsible actions today. While $2,250 might be a bit steep for many to commit to one series, this 30-volume set does offer a rather comprehensive snapshot of the present world picture. Recommended. Other titles in the series include: The Philadelphia Story, The Boxer, The Seattle Syndrome and The Right to Choose. Aud: H, C, P. (E. Gieschen)