Jobs Are Not the Answer...But Then What Is?
By Angus MacIntyre; 203 pages; published by American Book Publishing
No matter how isolated we may feel at times, there is no denying that we are all part of a community, starting with the people and organizations in our own neighbourhood and expanding outward to the global community. That is the premise behind Jobs Are Not the Answer, in which Angus MacIntyre argues that simply promoting economic growth - through job creation or otherwise - will not lead to personal satisfaction or sustainable communities. He encourages people to look deeper at what is really needed within their communities and what they can personally offer to start the ball rolling. Using Cape Breton Island as his example, MacIntyre recounts the challenges and frustrations of people who feel helpless because of high unemployment rates and slow/no economic growth in the towns where they live; people who are unsure of how to stimulate community economic development (CED).
This book offers insight into the fundamentals of CED, the components necessary to jumpstart the process, and the roadblocks that communities often encounter along the way. Case studies from other regions of Canada highlight the fact that it is not only Cape Bretoners who are looking within their own communities for solutions...and finding them. MacIntyre suggests practical ways that people can foster dialogue and inspire new and renewed approaches to social and economic development at the local level. Although it doesn't have all the answers, the book certainly provides food for thought for those interested in CED, nonprofit organizations that are working to address complex problems within their community, and anyone who is unsatisfied with their current job and looking to add real meaning and depth to their life and their work.
Buy the book:
Canada: buy through Amazon.ca: CDN$18.69
International: buy through Amazon.com: US$19.95
