This catastrophe serves James Karp as a metaphor for our predicament and a lesson we may be doomed to repeat. In a sweeping synthesis of philosophy and policy analysis, Karp describes the conflict between our ecosphere and technosphere. He argues that the vision of sustainable development would serve society better than the more simplistic progress paradigm. Life-cycle management requires the developer of a product or service to take environmental responsibility for it during its lifetime. Karp proposes specific actions to give these principles substance and force.
Accountability is based on public information and knowledge.
Anticipating resistance to sustainable development on the grounds that jobs are at stake, Karp insists that it is precisely because jobs are at stake that we must change our ways. James Karp is a professor of law and public policy in the School of Management of Syracuse University. He teaches the innovative M.B.A. course Managing in the Natural Environment. This article conveys the emphasis of his research and thinking in recent years. ResearchLink is a publication of the Syracuse University School of Management.