The Poverty of Power by Barry Commoner - Exam
- 1. The Poverty of Power, a pivotal work by environmental scientist and activist Barry Commoner, delves into the intricate relationships between social injustice, economic inequality, and environmental degradation. In this compelling analysis, Commoner presents a critical examination of how power structures in society often lead to the marginalization of both the underprivileged and the natural world. He argues that the concentration of economic and political power in the hands of a few leads to the systematic neglect of the needs of the majority, thereby exacerbating poverty and undermining democratic principles. Drawing on a rich array of scientific research and sociopolitical commentary, Commoner elucidates how the exploitation of natural resources not only damages the environment but also deepens societal rifts, rendering coherent and equitable policymaking increasingly elusive. He calls for a fundamental shift in how power is understood and wielded, advocating for a more equitable distribution of resources and decision-making authority that would empower communities and protect the environment. The Poverty of Power is a thought-provoking critique that remains relevant in contemporary discussions about sustainability, social equity, and the pressing need to rethink our approach to both governance and ecological stewardship.
Which energy source does Commoner criticize as particularly wasteful?
A) Hydroelectric power
B) Nuclear power
C) Solar energy
D) Wind power
- 2. What economic system does Commoner argue is incompatible with ecological principles?
A) Capitalism
B) Feudalism
C) Communism
D) Socialism
- 3. What does Commoner propose as a solution to environmental problems?
A) Stricter government regulations alone
B) Fundamental restructuring of the economic system
C) More technological innovations
D) Voluntary industry standards
- 4. How does Commoner view the role of technology in solving environmental crises?
A) Only space technology can help
B) Technology is the ultimate solution
C) Technology is irrelevant to environmental issues
D) Technology alone cannot solve systemic economic problems
- 5. According to Commoner, what is the primary driver of technological choices in capitalism?
A) Worker safety
B) Environmental protection
C) Profit maximization
D) Consumer preferences
- 6. What role does Commoner assign to the public in solving environmental crises?
A) Individual consumption choices only
B) No significant role
C) Passive acceptance of expert solutions
D) Active participation in demanding systemic change
- 7. According to Commoner, what is the fundamental flaw in market-based environmental solutions?
A) They don't address the root causes in production
B) They work too slowly
C) They are too expensive to implement
D) They require too much government intervention
- 8. What does Commoner say about the environmental movement of his time?
A) It is too radical in its demands
B) It should focus only on recycling
C) It has all the right solutions
D) It fails to address underlying economic causes
- 9. How does Commoner characterize the energy crisis of the 1970s?
A) A symptom of deeper economic system failures
B) A temporary shortage of oil
C) An inevitable natural phenomenon
D) A result of OPEC price manipulation only
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