"What's The Economy For, Anyway? is a thought-provoking, funny, readable, anti-ideological book based on the cult hit film of the same name. Here, scholars John de Graaf (author of Affluenza) and David Batker tackle thirteen touchstone economic issues and challenge readers to consider just what the point of our economy is. Emphasizing powerful American ideals such as working together, pragmatism, and equality for all, de Graaf and Batker set forth a simple, powerful goal for any economic system: the greatest good for the greatest number, over the longest run. Their vision will appeal to a wide array of readers across traditional silos. Drawing from this nation's rich economic history, the book shows that the good life in America is achieved when people and markets work together with an active government to create a better economy, one that works for everyone, not just the privileged few. Beginning by taking our fetish for GDP and shattering it, the chapters touch on quality of life, health, security, time management, worklife, leisure, social justice, and perhaps most important, sustainability. This sparkling, message-driven book is exactly what we need: a guide to what really matters, and how we can use the resources of our economy to make the world a better place"--

From the Publisher: Green Technology is an eight-volume set that examines the relationship between human activities and their sometimes harmful consequences for the environment and explores new methods of repairing and restoring the Earth. Approaching environmental issues confronting society from a technological perspective has spawned significant controversy, and the books in this set present all sides of the debate. Designed to complement science curricula, the set also covers relevant history and new green technologies and innovations that will contribute to the field in the future. Environmental Engineering: Designing a Sustainable Future examines how this field, which incorporates not only aspects of art and design but also physics, geology, ecology, and the chemistry of matter, evolved from a discipline of civil engineering. Environmental engineers learn how to work with nature to improve and control the quality of the land, air, and water for the benefit of human and nonhuman cohabitation. Sidebars, figures, and case studies enhance fundamental concepts and examine urgent issues related to the "natural future" of the environment. The volume includes information on: aerodynamics; ecological and energy "architecture"; energy-efficient electronics; innovations in personal vehicles; landscape design; micro climates; solar homes; sustainable manufacturing; transit systems; and wastewater. The book contains 50 color photographs and line illustrations, five appendixes, a glossary, a detailed list of print and Internet resources, and an index. Green Technology is essential for high school students, teachers, and general readers who seek information on the important issues that affect the environment worldwide.