COM310-6: Book Review 2—An Inconvenient Truth, by Al Gore

(COM310 syllabus) | (grading) | (further reading)

Assignment: Read Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth. This assignment has three parts. First, briefly state and illustrate Gores's primary theses. Develop a brief outline of primary changes Gore believes are called for, based on his data and interpretation, and how fast must these changes take place. In a brief essay, tell why you believe it is likely or unlikely that changes of this magnitude and speed will take place. State what you believe will be the consequences if they do not take place to the degree and in the time needed.

Second, review Gore's references to the Kyoto accord. On your own, find out why the U.S. government is one of two that has not signed this document. Defend or attack the present position of your country.

Finally, reflect on your reading and critique in your journal, emphasizing the most direct personal implications of this work. What changes do you think you should make in your lifestyle, and how likely is it that you will make these changes? If there is a clash between what you think you should do and what you think you actually will do, write a brief paragraph demonstrating how you will explain this to a hypothetical grand child (yours) in the year 2060.

Format: This review should be a minimum of 2 to 3 pages long, printed, double spaced, 10-12pt font, 1" margins. Make certain that you have proofread and that the final copy contains no typos or grammatical errors.

Due: Submit in class on 10/04.