Peter S. Wenz – författare

Racial minorities in the United States are disproportionately exposed to toxic wastes and other environmental hazards, and cleanup efforts in their communities are slower and less thorough than efforts elsewhere. Internationally, wealthy countries of the North increasingly ship hazardous wastes to poorer countries of the South, resulting in such tragedies as the disaster at Bhopal. Through case studies that highlight the type of information that is seldom reported in the news, Faces of Environmental Racism exposes the type and magnitude of environmental racism, both domestic and international. The essays explore the justice of current environmental practices, asking such questions as whether cost-benefit analysis is an appropriate analytic technique and whether there are alternate routes to sustainable development in the South.

This book explores the philosophical background of questions on environmental justice. It focuses on theories of distributive justice, primarily those which concern the manner in which benefits and burdens should be allocated when there is a scarcity of benefits (relative to people's wants or needs) and a surfeit of burdens. It is one of those rare philosophy books that is at once accessible and sophisticated, as it introduces both philosophers and people interested in environmental studies, law, and economics to germane developments in the philosophical treatment of the question of justice. Since environmental concerns are uniquely global, theories of distributive justice are tested most thoroughly for their comprehensiveness when they are applied to environmental matters. Consequently, most illustrations and applications in this book are drawn from contexts of environmental concerns including property rights, human rights, animal rights, general utility, and hypothetical contracts.

A Fresh and Engaging Introduction to Philosophy of Religion for STEM Students Philosophy of Religion for a STEM Generation applies a new cross-disciplinary approach to the age-old questions of religion and science. Written by philosopher and educator Peter S. Wenz, this innovative textbook combines the rigor of scientific reasoning with the depth of theological inquiry, creating a unique bridge between STEM students and philosophy of religion. Using humor, pop culture, and personal narratives, Wenz considers philosophical questions surrounding the existence of God, the nature of the universe, free will, the problem of evil, and other key philosophical arguments. Fully integrating scientific theories and methods into discussions of traditional religious topics, the book not only considers the scientific worldview but also examines how science and theology can complement one another. Student-friendly chapters offer fascinating insights into how philosophical analysis and scientific evidence can converge while providing a balanced examination that makes complex ideas relatable and thought-provoking, without taking a stance on whether or not God actually exists. Philosophy of Religion for a STEM Generation is ideal for students in undergraduate Philosophy of Religion or Philosophy of Science courses, as well as all students seeking to understand religion’s role in a scientific world and explore life’s biggest questions at the intersection of science, faith, and philosophy.

How can we reduce unemployment? As this insightful and counterintuitive book shows, the surprising answer is inefficiency. Some of the most labor-intensive sectors of the economy, the author notes, are also the most inefficient. But this inefficiency is functional--rather than impairing the economy, it bolsters employment and fosters economic growth.Technological progress increases efficiency and reduces the need for workers in manufacturing, mining, agriculture, and many services. So how do we keep people working? By maintaining inefficiencies in other areas, such as in our systems of transportation and healthcare. The author documents the waste of time and money in hospital systems, the insurance and pharmaceutical industries, automotive travel, road construction, and road maintenance. These inefficiencies are tolerated because they provide a lot of jobs and promote economic growth, making them functional inefficiencies.Most of these inefficiencies can be reduced without increasing unemployment or impairing economic growth, the author claims, through increased investment in physical and human infrastructure. However, continued inefficiencies inherent in consumerism can't be eradicated without economic decline, making some inefficiency essential as well as functional.Functional Inefficiency offers a wealth of details and a unique analysis of our economic system, plus hope for our future prospects through reduced inefficiency.