The three biggest challenges facing the world today, in A. C. Grayling's view, are climate change, technology and justice. In his timely new book, he asks: can human beings agree on a set of values that will allow us to confront the numerous threats facing the planet, or will we simply continue with our disagreements and antipathies as we collectively approach our possible extinction? As every day brings new stories about extreme weather events, spyware, lethal autonomous weapons systems, and the health imbalance between the northern and southern hemispheres, Grayling's question – Is Global Agreement on Global Challenges Possible? – becomes ever more urgent. The solution he proposes is both pragmatic and inspiring.
A. C. Grayling is the Founder and Principal of the New College of the Humanities at Northeastern University, London, and its Professor of Philosophy. Among his many books are The God Argument, Democracy and Its Crisis, The History of Philosophy, The Good State and The Frontiers of Knowledge. He has been a regular contributor to The Times, Guardian, Financial Times, Independent on Sunday, Economist, New Statesman, Prospect and New European. He appears frequently on radio and TV, including Newsnight and CNN News. He lives in London.
"A truly excellent book. Grayling invites us all into a vital discussion of our planet's future. The chapter on climate change, particularly, is an outstanding summary of the challenges we face."
– Sir David King, former Chief Scientific Adviser to the UK Government
"A must read for anyone with questions, worries and fears about pollution, poverty, protectionism, populism, weapons proliferation, and where our world is headed."
– Gordon Brown, former UK prime minister
"Grayling writes with admirable clarity and great conviction. He is clearly one of the good guys, appalled by the universality of infamy: climate nationalism, religious bigotry, gender inequality."
– Iain Macwhirter, Herald (Glasgow)
"An enthusiastic thinker who embraces humour, common sense and lucidity."
– Independent
"Grayling is particularly good at illuminating the knottiness of moral discourse."
– Sunday Times