Joop van Hezik brings philosophy to life, in more ways than one. He shows that the ideology of 'economic growth' is the basis of our modern societies and economies, and even of our sustainable development policies. In this ideology people and nature seem to be merely instruments for economic growth. This results in destruction and the failure of sustainable development policies at all geographical levels. As Van Hezik clearly demonstrates, we need utopian thinking to reflect on the real values of life on earth. So-called poor local communities in the Philippines have found ways to pursue their own utopia, based on respect for people and nature. Does the rest of the world have the guts to follow their example?

Rob Wolters, Executive Director ECNC-European Centre for Nature Conservation