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Growth

664 pages, 2019

science & nature

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1064 books
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Takeaways
Description

A systematic investigation of growth in nature and society, from tiny organisms to the trajectories of empires and civilizations. Growth has been both an unspoken and an explicit aim of our individual and collective striving. It governs the lives of microorganisms and galaxies; it shapes the capabilities of our extraordinarily large brains and the fortunes of our economies. 

Growth is manifested in annual increments of continental crust, a rising gross domestic product, a childs growth chart, and the spread of cancerous cells. In this magisterial book, Vaclav Smil offers a systematic investigation of growth in nature and society, from tiny organisms to the trajectories of empires and civilizations. Smil takes readers from bacterial invasions through animal metabolisms to megacities and the global economy. 

He begins with organisms whose mature sizes range from microscopic to enormous, looking at disease-causing microbes, the cultivation of staple crops, and human growth from infancy to adulthood. He examines the growth of energy conversions and man-made objects that enable economic activities--developments that have been essential to civilization. Finally, he looks at the growth of complex systems, beginning with the growth of human populations and proceeding to the growth of cities. 

He considers the challenges of tracing the growth of empires and civilizations, explaining that we can chart the growth of organisms across individual and evolutionary time, but that the progress of societies and economies, not so linear, encompasses both decline and renewal. The trajectory of modern civilization, driven by competing imperatives of material growth and biospheric limits, Smil tells us, remains uncertain.

Understanding Growth

In the book Growth, Vaclav Smil explores the concept of growth in a variety of contexts. He digs into the growth of organisms, economies, and civilizations, providing a comprehensive look at how growth works and why it's important.

The Complexity of Growth

Smil's research shows that growth isn't as simple as it seems. It's a complex process influenced by a variety of factors. From the growth of a single cell to the expansion of a city, there are countless variables at play.

The Impact of Growth

One of the key takeaways from Growth is the impact it has on our world. Smil shows how growth can lead to progress and prosperity, but also to problems like overpopulation and environmental degradation. It's a double-edged sword that needs to be managed carefully.

The Future of Growth

Smil doesn't just look at the past and present of growth, he also explores its future. He discusses the challenges we face in managing growth and offers insights into how we can navigate them. It's a thought-provoking look at what lies ahead.

The Importance of Studying Growth

Finally, Smil emphasizes the importance of studying growth. By understanding how it works, we can make better decisions and create a more sustainable future. So, if you're interested in these topics, check out Growth. It's a fascinating read that will change the way you see the world.

Quotes 2

There is no author whose books I look forward to more than Vaclav Smil.

Bill GatesBill Gates - Microsoft Co-founder

I'm reading a book called 'Growth' by Vaclav Smil. It's very good.

Elon MuskElon Musk - Tesla CEO
Bill GatesElon Musk

Recommendations

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Bill Gates

Bill Gates

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