Judith Shapiro Knihy

Kulturní revoluce v Číně. Svědectví o rozvratu a násilí, zoufalství i naději očima jejího vykonavatele i její oběti. Liang Cheng se narodil roku 1954 v Chu-nanu, rodné provincii předsedy Mao Ce-tunga. Ve svých vzpomínkách zachycuje události dvou desetiletí od konce padesátých let do roku 1980, kdy se oženil s američankou Judy Shapiro a odjel do Spojených států. Soustřeďuje se především na Kulturní revoluci, hektickou kampaň plnou náhlých zvratů, v níž se stává střídavě obětí, němým svědkem a nadšeným účastníkem bouřlivých událostí. Z pohledu očitého svědka líčí průběh kampaně i svůj počáteční zápal, postupné zklamání a skepsi až do svého odjezdu z Číny.

China’s huge environmental challenges affect not only the health and well-being of China but the very future of the planet. In this fully revised and updated third edition of her acclaimed book, noted scholar of Chinese environmentalism Judith Shapiro explores China’s struggle to achieve the ‘ecological civilization’ championed by Xi Jinping since 2017. Drawing on six core analytical concepts - globalization, governance, national identity, civil society, environmental justice, and extractivism - Shapiro ably demonstrates the multifaceted and complex nature of this struggle. China’s precipitous economic growth has carried a heavy cost in air and water pollution, soil contamination, and loss of habitat for the biodiversity upon which human life depends. But its quest for sustainability has been further hampered by authoritarian governance patterns, soaring middle class consumption, the need to provide employment and safety nets for a population of more than one billion, and a manufacturing sector thirsty to secure global resources and sell to new markets. Transformation to a more sustainable development model is still possible. But, as Shapiro persuasively argues, this will require humility, creativity, and a rejection of business as usual. China – and the planet – are at a pivotal moment.

Focusing on the impact of Mao's policies, this narrative explores the intertwining themes of environmental degradation and human suffering in China during that era. It delves into the consequences of political decisions on both the land and the people, revealing the profound struggles faced by individuals amidst widespread ecological devastation. The book offers a critical examination of a tumultuous period, highlighting the lasting effects on the environment and society.

Emphasizing the importance of community in teaching, Judith Shapiro advocates for a collaborative approach that enhances both faculty engagement and student learning. By fostering connections among educators, teaching becomes more dynamic and effective. The pamphlet highlights the value of a residential liberal arts education while also addressing the role of virtual communication. Shapiro's insights make this a vital read for those involved in higher education, encouraging a renewal of teaching practices that benefit the entire academic community.

Can China's eco-authoritarianism save the planet?--