X-Events

X-Events

John L. Casti, 2012

Overview

Acclaimed theorist John L. Casti presents a chilling warning: today's advanced societies are overcomplex and highly vulnerable to extreme events. The modern industrialized world, dependent on technology and global interconnectedness, offers conveniences but may be as unstable as a house of cards. A single 'X-event'—an unpredictable occurrence with extreme consequences—could send civilization crashing back to the nineteenth century. Such an event would halt finance, communication, defense, and travel, disrupting the flow of essential resources like food, electricity, medicine, and clean water for extended periods.

Who it's for

• Readers interested in systems theory and societal vulnerability.
• Those concerned about the fragility of modern infrastructure.
• Individuals seeking to understand potential catastrophic risks.

Key features

• Language: English
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 320
• Publisher: HarperCollins USA
• ISBN: 9780062088284
• Year: 2012