Park Yong-june; Kung Ree Publishing: 364 pp., 18,000 won
In the modern era of convenience and high technology, the Indigo Global Humanities Project based in Busan seeks to reconnect humanity with ethics, aesthetics and compassion. The umbrella organization ― which includes a cultural center, bookstore, magazine and after-school program _ spotlights famous intellectuals the world over, including high profile personalities such as Noam Chomsky and the late Howard Zinn, in hopes of nurturing a ``more humane world.’’
This book chronicles a series of conversations held with influential cultural figures to guide in an uplifting manner the way to social enlightenment, the big question being: ``What are we to do to make a difference?’’ How can we recalibrate the values important to sustain our world?
From the Australian philosopher and author Peter Singer (``To me the underlying principle [of justice] is equal concern for the interests of everyone.’’) to African human rights’ organizations, Park and his team of young activists delve into the conceptual and concrete methods of change.
Ultimately, the aim of the group is admirable, if a tough one to swallow whole. Changing the world is more than a small step, but these visionaries are certainly determined to try.
- Ines Min