Surviving Progress

Surviving Progress is a thought-provoking and insightful documentary from 2011 that delves into the controversial subject of human progress. It attempts to dissect the notion of progress, suggesting that our constant drive for advancement might not be as positively impactful as we might think. The film has a unique approach to discussing the subject matter, featuring intellectual contributions from a range of personalities, notably including Ronald Wright, Mark Levine, and Robert Wright.

The movie provides a fascinating exploration of the concept of "progress traps," a term that originated from British author Ronald Wright, who wrote the book "A Short History of Progress". In this book and within the movie, a progress trap is defined as a concept where human beings, in their pursuit of progress, end up causing damage that can be irreversible. The movie goes a step ahead to further extrapolate how these progress traps could potentially converge into an existential crisis for humanity.

Featuring interviews from extraordinary thinkers, economists, historians, environmental activists, and anthropologists such as Ronald Wright, Mark Levine, and Robert Wright, the documentary sews together a narrative that questions our notions of development, growth, and progress. The skillful stitching of personal insights, theories, and thought experiments delivered by these intellectuals adds depth to the discourse the movie addresses.

The central figure in Surviving Progress is Ronald Wright, an archeologist, novelist and historian who provides a riveting commentary in the film. His book serves as the conceptual backbone for the documentary, providing the premise that too much progress can do more harm than good, a phenomenon he refers to as a “progress trap." His insights from studying past civilizations that have fallen victim to their advancement pave the way for an insightful journey through the course of human progress.

With Mark Levine, an energy scientist, the film delves into how our current progress trap can be seen manifest in our dependence on fossil fuels, thereby highlighting the environmental costs of our progress. He uses his authority in energy-related matters to help the film make a compelling case about the ill-consequences of relentless consumption and production.

The documentary also gives room to Robert Wright, a journalist, scholar and prize-winning author of non-fiction books about science, evolutionary psychology, history, religion, and game theory. His insights provide a unique perspective on progress traps in the context of game theory and evolutionary psychology.

The film’s gripping narrative takes us across the globe, from the Amazon rain forests to the heart of Wall Street. It also draws attention to crucial environmental, social, and economic issues. For example, it highlights the damage caused by deforestation, industrial farming, and predatory capitalistic practices. In doing so, it compels the audience to reflect deeply on the human condition and our collective responsibility for our planet.

The expertise brought into the film by notable figures in diverse fields helps the documentary to carefully balance and juxtapose differing perspectives on progress. It does not argue that progress is bad; rather, it sheds light on the critical need for an enhanced understanding and a more holistic, sustainable approach to progress.

Directed by Mathieu Roy and Harold Crooks, Surviving Progress is both enlightening and challenging, presenting viewers with uncomfortable truths while also encouraging them to question their understanding of progress. This approach makes it compelling and memorable, sparking deep reflection and conversation.

The movie does not offer easy solutions, because the issues it presents are complex and multifaceted. Instead, it encourages viewers to reflect upon and grapple with these questions themselves. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to heed the lessons of history and learn from civilizations before us that did not effectively manage their “progress traps."

In conclusion, Surviving Progress is an engaging, intellectual, and contemplative documentary that does not shy away from presenting viewers with hard truths about our species' relentless pursuit of progress. The film's thought-stirring dialogue and its impressive panel of contributors make it essential viewing for those hungry for a challenging and fresh perspective on human development and progress.