Frequently Asked Questions

The following are questions I regularly encounter in interviews, the Q&A sessions following my public presentations, and queries from colleagues. Answers sometimes include links to other resources, including those on this website. This is a work in progress. I will continue to add questions with my answers as I have time.

    Each answer offers a place for your comment. Although I cannot commit to respond to comments and/or questions, I welcome thoughtful reflections and constructive suggestions.

    Most of the issues discussed below are treated in greater depth in The Great Turning: From Empire to Earth Community. My article on "The Great Turning" in the Summer issue of YES! magazine summarizes the arguments.

    Questions are organized by major theme both here and on the FAQ menu tabs. 

Change Strategy

Don't the institutions of Empire hold all the power?

What about corporate control of media?

No one gives up power voluntarily. Isn't violence inevitable?

Given the urgency, don't we have to work through the existing system?

Democracy

Why do you call the United States a plutocracy?

Earth Community

What will Earth Community look like?

Economy

Why do you call money history's most successful con game?

Prospects for Success

Won't things have to get a lot worse before people will be motivated for change?

The changes you call for our daunting. Do we have time?