Choices for Global Social Stability

Scientists and societal leaders increasingly agree that human activity is irretrievably changing the environment in which human life and other life forms co-exist. Action to reduce human impact on the environment is an imperative prerequisite to achieving social stability. Accelerating migration patterns due to environmental stress and population pressure have been associated with emerging conflicts. Population movement from rural areas to megacities may weaken social structures and create social chaos. Traditional dogmas, whether ethnic, religious or political, must be re-thought in this changing context if global society is to avoid collapse in a weakening ecosystem. Copyright © 2008 IFAC