This was sent earlier, but did not get posted:
Several of these response appear to be spoken from the limited perspective of
people in an elite position (especially the one that puts down farmers). FYI,
most people do not have time to read and research such things because they are
too busy working and supporting their families. Also, they would most likely
not be aware that ideas published on .net sites (like the ones provided) are
not peer-reviewed nor are certain books published with an agenda (there is an
entire industry based on it).
Also, research is paid for by the public and the results should be used to
benefit that same public (i.e., it is not ok for people to steal these ideas so
a few can make money). Just because people do steal other peoples work and
ideas does not make it right (even if it is legal, not all laws are just).
These little eco-exploitation niches like permaculture are doing exactly
that...they are benefiting themselves, not the public...and they are doing so
under false pretenses.
Some of you have misread my arguement...I said LEED as well as wildlife
preserves...
I used these all (LEED, permaculture, wildlife reserves, etc.) as examples that
have a common framework and have been used for generations to capitalize on
people's good nature. The things they have in common are that they all use
ideas stolen from others, claim to provide certain benefits that are not backed
up by evidence, are out of reach for most people, and in many cases actually
disenfranchise people.
FYI, I have worked and published about land issues in Africa and the
exploitation there is even worse...
Jon McCloskey, Ph.D.
