No to Pessimism: Life, Diversity, Freedom, and Knowledge, with Optimism

In an era shadowed by pessimism, this book heralds a vibrant statement of optimism for both human and non-human life, grounded in diversity, freedom, and knowledge. It counters the gloom, acknowledging the widespread suffering and threats to our biosphere, yet it is driven by a mission to lessen this pain and enhance lasting human wellbeing. Our collective challenge―the wellbeing problem―is how to not just survive but to thrive. This exploration delves into necessary changes for sustained flourishing, highlighting the urgency of this existential quest. Within our current crises lie seeds of opportunity, the chance to envision and craft a new reality. This isn’t a plea to those in power for systemic overhaul or utopian dreams; rather, it’s a direct call to individuals. It urges us to fiercely guard our freedoms, recognizing that diversity and liberty fuel the growth of knowledge―our true wealth. The author’s hope for life’s future hinges on our embracing this responsibility with vigilance.

Dr Girol Karacaoglu, BA, MBA Bogazici (Istanbul, Turkey), PhD University of Hawaii, is Adjunct Professor in the Wellington School of Business and Government at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), New Zealand. Dr Karacaoglu was the Head of School of Government at Victoria University until 30 June 2022. He came to VUW from the New Zealand Treasury, where he was Chief Economist. Before then, he was the Chief Executive of PSIS (now Co-operative Bank of New Zealand) for nine years. His research interest is in public policy: an integrated approach to transformative environmental, social, political, and economic policies towards improving intergenerational wellbeing. He is author or co-author of, amongst other publicationa: An Introduction to Financial Markets in New Zealand (1988); Intergenerational wellbeing and public policy – an integrated environmental, social, and economic framework (2019); Public policy and governance frontiers in New Zealand (2020); Social policy practice and processes in Aotearoa New Zealand (2021); Love You – public policy for intergenerational wellbeing (2021); Resilient democratic governance – navigating unity in diversity for sustainable well-being (2024).

Dr Abby Innes is Associate Professor of Political Economy in the European Institute at the London School of Economics.