Springtime for Algore: A Romantic Pilgrimage to Germany’s ‘Eco–Anschluss’
A nice, brief encapsulation of the history of various neuroses associated with the contemporary liberal-left, from bogus, pathetic religiosity to a fascination with whatever version of Big State power and planning is the current fad -- Soviet-style communism, Mussolini-style fascism, Nazi-style architectural theatricality, or the latest Green-style invasion of everyday life.The latter is displayed in the breathless prose of a travel piece in a glossy airline mag, on Berlin of all places, the city involved in every loopy utopian swamp of the century past -- an article that gushes about the city's "anti-consumption ethic", for example, adding that piquant hint of a moral sensibility for its affluent readers, amid the ads for dream trips, hot hotels, and ultimate travel picks.
Thanks to Kate at SDA
Soviet-style communism, Mussolini-style fascism, Nazi-style architectural theatricality, or the latest Green-style invasion of everyday life..
ReplyDeleteSort of a bogus comparison, m. Some eco-types may go a bit far, but they're a long ways from Nuremberg rallies or Red square marches, or even from building Pentagons (nearly worthy of Albert Speer himself). The biggest structures around LA tend to be financial skyscrapers, stadiums, or big museums and halls funded by tycoons--Getty, Ahmanson, Disney, various hollywood producer-swine. "Green" is rare (and anyway we shouldn't mistake Al Gore style corporate "greenism" for real environmentalism)
Eco-types have their own style of control, yes, that was the point -- but, though it varies, it's often just as totalitarian in intent. From garbage, to diet, to shopping, to personal hygiene, greenies have strict regimens for us all, that many would be quite happy to impose if and when they think they can get away with it.
ReplyDeleteYes and no. The radical vegetarian types might, and it's irritating at times. Yet there are certain normative issues related to the production of beef, cattle, pork, poultry that humans should be aware of, arguably--at least some (politicians, academics, etc). Im not down with the Peter Singer type but...at least read him, and then disagree (I don't eat pork, and beef rarely. poultry and fish, yes, and the occasional roasted goat). It's not just "ethics" per se but about the...L-word (labor)--were consumers required to work in a slaughterhouse they'd probably think twice about their steak or burger.
ReplyDeleteAt one time I was more sympathetic to libertarian views re health, alcohol, smoking, legalization of dope, etc. Now, Im not. Actually I think hard booze should probably be banned, or at least more controlled. Tobacco could be outlawed with no great harm--the tobacco industry still a major power. With Cannabis---I'm for decrim. in principle, but with...restrictions.