This episode discusses the roles of renewability of resources especially energy and maximizing sustainability of human activities on earth in the 21st century (and beyond) in progressive political thinking. The excesses of late 19th century industrialization began to show that raw resources were not unlimited. Theodore Roosevelt (possibly the first progressive president) led a movement to preserve some landmarks that would be preserved for the public benefit for the indefinite future. Later in the 20th century the effects of colonial exploitation began to be seen around the world and people began to see that the Earth’s resources were limited and that it would be more and more important to factor renewability and sustainability into public policy although some people challenge the idea that limited resources should be managed and maximized. Progressivism recognizes that we are able to renew some resources, but we want to use finite elements and compounds wisely and sustain our lives for the long term. The Earth rise photo can be seen at https://s.yimg.com/aah/skyimage/apollo-8-earth-rise-50.jpg. Some other great resources can be found at https://www.activesustainability.com/renewable-energy/ and http://weforum.org/agenda/2015/09/renewable-energy-is-not-enough-it-needs-to-be%20sustainable/. Now go out and express your power and vote!
