A long interview with Barry Jones warning of retreat from reason and the need for Labor reform follows re-publication and update of his book What Is To Be Done – Political Engagement and Saving the Planet.
Jones says: “Labor lacks boldness and conviction, the capacity to develop detailed policies, and the ability to argue convincingly and persuade voters; and is plagued by a short-term, reactionary approach to politics. Jones describes Labor as “undemocratic, structurally moribund (and) heavily factionalised”.
Reviews from publishers Scribe include:
‘Almost four decades ago, Barry Jones foretold the future with his seminal book, Sleepers, Wake! Now, he is back, with new energy and insights. For those wanting to understand the confounding age in which we live, What Is To Be Done is essential reading. I hope it will galvanise the many debates we need to have if we are to shape a better future.’
Julia Gillard AC
‘The author of this book is a genius. He irritates the hell out of people of all political loyalties. He reads virtually everything that matters. In these pages we, his readers, are the beneficiaries. Forty years after his masterpiece Sleepers, Wake! he tackles the challenges of a new age: the digital world, climate change, COVID-19, and widespread political disillusionment. If any author can offer us thoughtful directions for what is to be done, it is Barry Jones.’
Michael Kirby AC CMG
‘Honestly critical and generous judgements from Australia’s most knowledgeable mind, about threats to our civilisation and how we can conserve the best.’
Ross Garnaut
With more reviews of What Is To Be Done by Philip Adams, Peter Dougherty, Fiona Stanley, Geoff Cousins, Chris Freeman.
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