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What's Going On? How Can We Help?: The consequences of capitalism and actionable steps towards a healthy and sustainable future
In an era of seemingly inevitable obstacles, increasing chaos, and worn-out debates, comes a refreshing combination of a better future with actionable, step-by-step plans of attack.
FREEQUILL dives deep to uncover the origins of our re-occurring challenges; exploring the murky waters of capitalism, consumerism, and our ancient monetary system. Key topics are carefully broken down along an approachable and entertaining journey, packed with fresh perspectives and real-world examples. The highly considered solutions range from a whole new political system to simple tricks and tips that you can implement today.
Reviews
"A rare piece of writing, one that makes an insightful and well-researched critique of our current society alongside positive and pro-active solutions."
-Dr Mike Coto, Researcher at The University of Cambridge and Co-founder of Primera Impact
"ASTONISHING! From the moment I started I couldn't put it down. Research, writing, and framework is flawless. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to read this book."
-Susan Kiley, author of A Resilient Soul
"A compelling, thought-provoking, and fascinating read. It certainly opened my eyes."
-Tiffany Shand, author of The Amaranthine Chronicles
"A well-organized and thought-through manifesto for a revolutionary economy."
-Sandy Gee, author of Economic Food Storage Strategies for Disaster Survival
"A huge amount of time, energy, and research has gone into this book. I really enjoyed it."
-Martin Jones, author of Mason Wilson and the Dead Bird Debacle
"I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in making a positive difference in the world."
-Nicolas Provencal, Founder of A Feather Way
"A deeply considered, well-researched, and well-written piece with goodwill and strength... Books like this don't come every day."
-Harris Page, M.Sc
"A thorough insight into all the major issues of our world. Really kept me reading and reading. 5 Stars!"
-Sharrell Port, M.Sc
Tag Lines
- Science and reason with heart and compassion
- Eye-opening, solution-focused, and highly disruptive (in a good way!)
- A step-by-step plan of attack to a sustainable and ethical future
- An actionable guide to utopia
- You CAN change the world, this is your guide
- Why some things suck and how to make things awesome
- The refreshing combo of answers and antidotes
- Ever wondered what the f*ck is going on? Ever wondered how we can help?
Our Pledge
For every book sold Illuminate Press have pledged to plant ten new trees. These trees will be used reduce soil degradation and air pollution as well as provide sustainable and healthy food for families in need. To accomplish this they have become an official partner with TREES.org.
If there is any profit remaining they will continue to invest in sustainable and ethical projects that facilitate a brighter future.
FREEQUILL dives deep to uncover the origins of our re-occurring challenges; exploring the murky waters of capitalism, consumerism, and our ancient monetary system. Key topics are carefully broken down along an approachable and entertaining journey, packed with fresh perspectives and real-world examples. The highly considered solutions range from a whole new political system to simple tricks and tips that you can implement today.
Reviews
"A rare piece of writing, one that makes an insightful and well-researched critique of our current society alongside positive and pro-active solutions."
-Dr Mike Coto, Researcher at The University of Cambridge and Co-founder of Primera Impact
"ASTONISHING! From the moment I started I couldn't put it down. Research, writing, and framework is flawless. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to read this book."
-Susan Kiley, author of A Resilient Soul
"A compelling, thought-provoking, and fascinating read. It certainly opened my eyes."
-Tiffany Shand, author of The Amaranthine Chronicles
"A well-organized and thought-through manifesto for a revolutionary economy."
-Sandy Gee, author of Economic Food Storage Strategies for Disaster Survival
"A huge amount of time, energy, and research has gone into this book. I really enjoyed it."
-Martin Jones, author of Mason Wilson and the Dead Bird Debacle
"I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in making a positive difference in the world."
-Nicolas Provencal, Founder of A Feather Way
"A deeply considered, well-researched, and well-written piece with goodwill and strength... Books like this don't come every day."
-Harris Page, M.Sc
"A thorough insight into all the major issues of our world. Really kept me reading and reading. 5 Stars!"
-Sharrell Port, M.Sc
Tag Lines
- Science and reason with heart and compassion
- Eye-opening, solution-focused, and highly disruptive (in a good way!)
- A step-by-step plan of attack to a sustainable and ethical future
- An actionable guide to utopia
- You CAN change the world, this is your guide
- Why some things suck and how to make things awesome
- The refreshing combo of answers and antidotes
- Ever wondered what the f*ck is going on? Ever wondered how we can help?
Our Pledge
For every book sold Illuminate Press have pledged to plant ten new trees. These trees will be used reduce soil degradation and air pollution as well as provide sustainable and healthy food for families in need. To accomplish this they have become an official partner with TREES.org.
If there is any profit remaining they will continue to invest in sustainable and ethical projects that facilitate a brighter future.
234 pages, Hardcover
Published February 14, 2018
8 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Freequill
1 book1 followerFreequill is a writer and activist and chooses to remain anonymous.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
July 13, 2018
Freequill presents us with some extremely tough questions in What's Going On? How Can We Help?: the consequences of capitalism and actionable steps towards a healthy and sustainable future. As Americans, we have wealth and material goods at our finger tips, but seldom dig deeper into the origin of where our "goods" came from and the conditions in which these people live in order for us to fulfill our lust of "things". This book also exposes areas where we cheat each other in business, or even the deception of news broadcasters.
Though Freequill exposes the frauds in our country and the slavery in other countries to supply the demands of our lusts, I feel frustrated and helpless as to how to change my own habits and would that even make a difference in the scheme of things? The Free System seems too unrealistic for people to grasp unless a major catastrophe happened, forcing us to change our ways. Though there have been many events in our country's past that shaped a better environment for all of us, so who knows if we couldn't change the directions we are headed?
Though Freequill exposes the frauds in our country and the slavery in other countries to supply the demands of our lusts, I feel frustrated and helpless as to how to change my own habits and would that even make a difference in the scheme of things? The Free System seems too unrealistic for people to grasp unless a major catastrophe happened, forcing us to change our ways. Though there have been many events in our country's past that shaped a better environment for all of us, so who knows if we couldn't change the directions we are headed?
June 20, 2018
‘Many theorists would argue that profit is often a leading reason to instigate modern warfare.’
The author of this book uses the moniker FREEQUILL and prefers to remain anonymous, stating in the opening ‘thank-you to the people who search for injustice and seek to solve it, who hunt for power and fight to dissolve it, who create solutions to our challenges, and contribute to a better world. At times these may seem like incredibly ambitious goals but your strength, courage and commitment to being the change inspires us all.’
In the Introduction he/she the purpose of this book – ‘The primary goal of this book is ambitious yet simple: to help people. In service of this we will explore some answers to questions that are becoming increasingly relevant: WHAT'S GOING ON? Our politicians often seem to focus on the symptoms rather than resolving the underlying causes—often applying new bandages to a potentially terminal infection. In part one we will delve deeper and uncover the true origins of our monetary system, consumer culture and capitalism. We will isolate the root causes, patterns and motivations behind our recurring obstacles. We will explore where we are at today and how we got here. HOW CAN WE HELP? If our current system is indeed failing, what’s the alternative? In part two, we will look at a brand-new political framework: The Free System. This will be a chance to think big and explore creative solutions to our current challenges. HOW CAN WE HELP TODAY? To remain grounded and pragmatic, in part three we will discuss an array of smaller, practical
solutions that you can implement straight away.’
In one of the more sensitive and remarkably clear methods of communication, FREEQUILL encourages us to look at the present system of governance, asking if the direction in which we appear to be headed is sound or destructive. ‘New viewpoints can enable us to circumvent seemingly insurmountable obstacles. They can allow us to see past the compromised lens of private monopolies. Fresh perspectives can unveil both answers and antidotes.’ He/she uses the topic of the genesis and now ubiquitous use of smartphones to suggest an example of how a ‘new’ direction is positive or destructive: the example is not only pertinent but also enlightening and opens the portal for thought.
Another thought-provoking discussion concerns sustainability and the concept of an alien landing on earth and observing our resources and how they are diminishing, the state of inequality between the wealthy and the rest of us, asking us the following: ‘By learning from our mistakes we can make things right going forward. Rather than frantically filling the cracks that appear all over an ancient system, we can solve the root causes of our issues. We can start by gaining a fresh perspective and acknowledging where we are at today. Then we can explore the various ways to implement positive change. We don't have to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders nor ignore our human urge to help. Each of us can implement various methods to be part of a larger solution. We will discuss these in detail in the chapters to come–but first, we need more data. What are the recurring patterns and themes behind our current challenges?’
Throughout this wise and thought inspiring book FREEQUILL offers many moment of sage advice: ‘We have been slowly moving in the wrong direction for some time. We are now past the era of speculation and blame; we need to create the era of positive direct action. True wisdom is not acquired by capturing knowledge; it is earned by acting upon knowledge. True bravery is not the absence of fear, it is doing what you feel is the right thing to do, in spite of fear.’
Placing care for our future in our hands rather than some distant, guarded sanctuary make us as readers take up the standard for change: ‘Please remember we are not alone in trying to do our part. More people are becoming aware of the consequences of our current system and lifestyles. And many pioneering organisations and individuals are exploring new ways to become engaged.’ Highly Recommended.
The author of this book uses the moniker FREEQUILL and prefers to remain anonymous, stating in the opening ‘thank-you to the people who search for injustice and seek to solve it, who hunt for power and fight to dissolve it, who create solutions to our challenges, and contribute to a better world. At times these may seem like incredibly ambitious goals but your strength, courage and commitment to being the change inspires us all.’
In the Introduction he/she the purpose of this book – ‘The primary goal of this book is ambitious yet simple: to help people. In service of this we will explore some answers to questions that are becoming increasingly relevant: WHAT'S GOING ON? Our politicians often seem to focus on the symptoms rather than resolving the underlying causes—often applying new bandages to a potentially terminal infection. In part one we will delve deeper and uncover the true origins of our monetary system, consumer culture and capitalism. We will isolate the root causes, patterns and motivations behind our recurring obstacles. We will explore where we are at today and how we got here. HOW CAN WE HELP? If our current system is indeed failing, what’s the alternative? In part two, we will look at a brand-new political framework: The Free System. This will be a chance to think big and explore creative solutions to our current challenges. HOW CAN WE HELP TODAY? To remain grounded and pragmatic, in part three we will discuss an array of smaller, practical
solutions that you can implement straight away.’
In one of the more sensitive and remarkably clear methods of communication, FREEQUILL encourages us to look at the present system of governance, asking if the direction in which we appear to be headed is sound or destructive. ‘New viewpoints can enable us to circumvent seemingly insurmountable obstacles. They can allow us to see past the compromised lens of private monopolies. Fresh perspectives can unveil both answers and antidotes.’ He/she uses the topic of the genesis and now ubiquitous use of smartphones to suggest an example of how a ‘new’ direction is positive or destructive: the example is not only pertinent but also enlightening and opens the portal for thought.
Another thought-provoking discussion concerns sustainability and the concept of an alien landing on earth and observing our resources and how they are diminishing, the state of inequality between the wealthy and the rest of us, asking us the following: ‘By learning from our mistakes we can make things right going forward. Rather than frantically filling the cracks that appear all over an ancient system, we can solve the root causes of our issues. We can start by gaining a fresh perspective and acknowledging where we are at today. Then we can explore the various ways to implement positive change. We don't have to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders nor ignore our human urge to help. Each of us can implement various methods to be part of a larger solution. We will discuss these in detail in the chapters to come–but first, we need more data. What are the recurring patterns and themes behind our current challenges?’
Throughout this wise and thought inspiring book FREEQUILL offers many moment of sage advice: ‘We have been slowly moving in the wrong direction for some time. We are now past the era of speculation and blame; we need to create the era of positive direct action. True wisdom is not acquired by capturing knowledge; it is earned by acting upon knowledge. True bravery is not the absence of fear, it is doing what you feel is the right thing to do, in spite of fear.’
Placing care for our future in our hands rather than some distant, guarded sanctuary make us as readers take up the standard for change: ‘Please remember we are not alone in trying to do our part. More people are becoming aware of the consequences of our current system and lifestyles. And many pioneering organisations and individuals are exploring new ways to become engaged.’ Highly Recommended.
July 2, 2018
It never bodes well when a book that I’m reading on a Kindle begins by lecturing me about the all-consuming rise of handheld devices and how they capture all our attention (and yes, it’s happened surprisingly often as I read various books about technology and society).
It further presents itself as a paradox that the same book—that I necessarily bought here on Amazon—goes on to tell us of the evils of Amazon and how we mustn’t participate in such exploitative systems if we can help it.
However! What this book does do is exactly what its rather wordy subtitle says it will do. There are a lot of obstacles to bringing about a better world for all of us, and this book addresses very many of them, in a very clear and methodical fashion. Furthermore, it does so in an accessible fashion. What do I mean by that?
A lot of anti-capitalist books will give technically-correct-but-dubious advice such as “Stop buying coffee at Starbucks and support your local independent café”. While that’s wonderful, it a) assumes I’m buying at Starbucks and b) assumes I’m also in a position to support the local independent café. What if I can’t spend that money on coffee anywhere? What if spending money isn’t even the answer to combat capitalism after all? What a radical notion. And we all know, yes, “grow your own vegetables”. That’s wonderful, and I try, but honestly I can’t be a full-time farmer and my modest crop of a few potatoes and carrots won’t feed my family. So what does this book give instead?
A great overview on firstly, as the main title suggests (albeit a touch more positively worded), what’s going wrong. And then, yes, how to fix it, even if poor and busy, like so very many of us are.
The stuff we’re consuming that actually can be cut down, and how.
The stuff we’re consuming that had ten meta-levels of waste (and exploitation) along the production line that have a single-level alternative that’s also cheaper and better.
The stuff we’re producing that’s going to waste, and how to redirect that instead.
The stuff we’re producing that’s frankly being stolen, and how to avoid that happening.
All in all, a brilliant manifesto for a modern age with many of the solutions the world sorely needs (and that can be implemented meaningfully by the reader, regardless of how much or little involvement we’re up for), and—notwithstanding my initial scepticism stemming from a questionably chosen introductory text—a book I won’t hesitate to highly recommend.
It further presents itself as a paradox that the same book—that I necessarily bought here on Amazon—goes on to tell us of the evils of Amazon and how we mustn’t participate in such exploitative systems if we can help it.
However! What this book does do is exactly what its rather wordy subtitle says it will do. There are a lot of obstacles to bringing about a better world for all of us, and this book addresses very many of them, in a very clear and methodical fashion. Furthermore, it does so in an accessible fashion. What do I mean by that?
A lot of anti-capitalist books will give technically-correct-but-dubious advice such as “Stop buying coffee at Starbucks and support your local independent café”. While that’s wonderful, it a) assumes I’m buying at Starbucks and b) assumes I’m also in a position to support the local independent café. What if I can’t spend that money on coffee anywhere? What if spending money isn’t even the answer to combat capitalism after all? What a radical notion. And we all know, yes, “grow your own vegetables”. That’s wonderful, and I try, but honestly I can’t be a full-time farmer and my modest crop of a few potatoes and carrots won’t feed my family. So what does this book give instead?
A great overview on firstly, as the main title suggests (albeit a touch more positively worded), what’s going wrong. And then, yes, how to fix it, even if poor and busy, like so very many of us are.
The stuff we’re consuming that actually can be cut down, and how.
The stuff we’re consuming that had ten meta-levels of waste (and exploitation) along the production line that have a single-level alternative that’s also cheaper and better.
The stuff we’re producing that’s going to waste, and how to redirect that instead.
The stuff we’re producing that’s frankly being stolen, and how to avoid that happening.
All in all, a brilliant manifesto for a modern age with many of the solutions the world sorely needs (and that can be implemented meaningfully by the reader, regardless of how much or little involvement we’re up for), and—notwithstanding my initial scepticism stemming from a questionably chosen introductory text—a book I won’t hesitate to highly recommend.
June 21, 2018
A pragmatic approach to real world issues
This is a look at many challenges that we as a society face from capitalism to consumerism. Plenty of real world examples and a new perspective combine to make this an interesting and entertaining read. There are step by step plans to achieve a better future along the way. I found this book to be a new look at current issues with some innovative outside the box thinking and solutions. A good read with some valuable insight into the current struggles facing society. Check this one out and let me know what you think.
This is a look at many challenges that we as a society face from capitalism to consumerism. Plenty of real world examples and a new perspective combine to make this an interesting and entertaining read. There are step by step plans to achieve a better future along the way. I found this book to be a new look at current issues with some innovative outside the box thinking and solutions. A good read with some valuable insight into the current struggles facing society. Check this one out and let me know what you think.
June 24, 2018
"What’s Going On” is incredibly insightful, thoughtful and well executed. The author has chosen to remain anonymous and quotes in the book “One person could change the whole world for better, as long as they don't give a damn who gets the credit.” - Anonymous.
An extremely well-written and inspirational read giving insight and history on our monetary system, consumer culture, capitalism and alternative solutions on how we could change the world today. Concise and easily understood with a wonderfully entertaining flow. A must read!
An extremely well-written and inspirational read giving insight and history on our monetary system, consumer culture, capitalism and alternative solutions on how we could change the world today. Concise and easily understood with a wonderfully entertaining flow. A must read!
January 8, 2019
I'm not much of a 'business' person in the way some are (dive so deep they get stuck). And I absolutely do not read about capitalism, etc. I'm a romantic/self-help type of person. :)
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC and couldn't put it down. Generally, not my type of reading, however, very informative!
Many times I was stopping and questioning my values and ways I go about my life--What can I be doing more to help the masses?
Give it a go, I enjoyed it.
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC and couldn't put it down. Generally, not my type of reading, however, very informative!
Many times I was stopping and questioning my values and ways I go about my life--What can I be doing more to help the masses?
Give it a go, I enjoyed it.
July 12, 2018
Our self-absorption into our own lives, our digital lives and the social media that permeates it has enabled the rich few to change our world in ways that are not for the best for the majority of people. This author, Freequill, helps us realize just how much change has been wrought upon our societies and even amidst this dark picture, gives us some hope. S/He lays out ways in which we (in his/her opinion) can improve and even undue some of the changes. This book is broken into different parts that first explains what is going on, then moves on to explore how we can help as well as what we can do today. Little things can have a big impact is the main message I got from this book, little changes in our diets, how we go about selecting the products we consume as well as how mindful we are as we go through our days (hopefully not glued to the cellphone) can have a bigger impact than we realize. It was an interesting book to read, peppered with quotes throughout by famous people, this book will give you something to think about.
June 18, 2018
What's Going On? How Can We Help?: the consequences of capitalism and actionable steps towards a healthy and sustainable future by Freequill endeavors to inform the readers about ways in which they can create a better world. Heady stuff indeed, but the author who has chosen to remain anonymous, lays out a fairly succinct plan to do so. Examining culture, consumerism, banking, the monetary system, capitalism, Freequill exposes the ways in which our world has changed and evolved, without us so much as noticing. Particularly interesting was the evolution of the smart phone and the impact on our daily lives. Well researched with a lot of detail, and inspirational quotes sprinkled throughout, the author takes us on a journey of redemption on a global scale. He promotes alternatives to current structures and ways of doing things in society that can have a big impact. Provocative and well written, this guide is highly recommend for anyone who wants to change the world.
July 11, 2018
The idea of a sustainable future is something we can all relate these days, there is a common degree of anxiety among those young adults who are unaware of the duties carried when we finally come to age, but this book might come more than handy for everyone.
The impact and progress of technology in our lives has been misdirected sadly, and despite some are attempting to make a change for the better in that regard, it ended up being fruitless for the common and lack of awareness of the advantages of having all those tools available. The book is stunning and easy to read, there are some clever facts and very ‘outside the box’ solutions for those trying to build a better and safer future for your family and the rest of the world, such originality is hard to find, especially in a book of this type. So I encourage those who are scared of what comes next in life to be prepared by reading this book, is a fun ride, you won’t regret it.
The impact and progress of technology in our lives has been misdirected sadly, and despite some are attempting to make a change for the better in that regard, it ended up being fruitless for the common and lack of awareness of the advantages of having all those tools available. The book is stunning and easy to read, there are some clever facts and very ‘outside the box’ solutions for those trying to build a better and safer future for your family and the rest of the world, such originality is hard to find, especially in a book of this type. So I encourage those who are scared of what comes next in life to be prepared by reading this book, is a fun ride, you won’t regret it.
November 11, 2018
I found this to be mostly interesting.Explained in simple terms that most people can understand what is actually going on.It is a good starter book for someone interested in the topic,but not sure how to look into it. Some comparisons were odd,but I got it. Tom Holmes was a fine narrator.I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
July 26, 2018
“What’s Going On?.... presented a whole lot of facts and information about capitalism and the negative effects of big (corrupt) businesses. In some parts I found it to be preachy but I guess it was because those parts touched my sensitive beliefs about consumerism and capitalism. This book in some ways acted as a mirror to society’s conscience, our (consumers’) actions and belief system. It points a finger on our self-involvement while overall there is decay and a general breakdown in society.
Well referenced and researched.
Well referenced and researched.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews