The Paradox of Progress by James Willis

The Paradox of Progress Reviews

• 
  Richard

  Excellent book by Dr. Willis about the changing life of a GP in the 80s and 90s, and the perils of the trends of increased technology, systematization, specialization, measurements - and what is lost as societies seem to be drifting more and more into becoming a big machine, rather than a place for human flourishing. One of the wonderful overarching themes in the book is the importance of balance and a broader context of experience from which to navigate in the world, with references to the ideals of being an enlightened generalist, and a Renaissance Person.
  
  The book is also full of human warmth, humour, and a positive outlook for how things could potentially be with a more balanced approach to building a culture for the future. Which might seem even more pertinent now, 25 years after its original publishing. And in McGilchrist terminology; Dr. Willis describes in this book the problems of the overly left hemispheric driven developments in the culture, and how a more right hemispheric balanced approach could contain many of the solutions.
  
  Highly recommended for insights, laughs, and solid food for thought.