| Abstract: Behavior analysts working to address systemic social-cultural problems need a thorough understanding of the multi-level context in which the issue is embedded, knowledge that almost always is found in disciplines other than behavior analysis. This PDS panel, sponsored by Behaviorists for Social Responsibility SIG, brings to the attention of behavior analysts three new books of social importance, with the goal to both inform and prompt further interest in the target social problems. Each panelist will offer commentary on one book. Mark Alavosius will reflect on “How the World Really Works: The Science Behind How We Got Here and Where We're Going” by Vaclav Smil. Jonathan Krispin will discuss "The Chaos Machine: The Inside Story of How Social Media Rewired Our Minds and Our World” by Max Fisher. And Rich Rakos will comment on “What We Owe the Future” by William MacAskill, a book that suggests “longtermism” is “the idea that positively influencing the longterm future is a key moral priority of our time.” Each of the panelists will present a brief overview or summary of the book’s main thesis, identify its strengths, offer critiques, and suggest links with or relevance for behavior analysis and Culturo-Behavior Science. Panelists will limit their commentary to 10-12 minutes each, leaving time for panelist interaction and audience participation. |