Communicating overshoot and collapse: based on a review of Richard A. Slaughter's The Biggest Wake‐up Call in History

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to look at the communications strategy of the wake up call suggested by Slaughter and to explore alternatives and other perspectives on its transmissions and receptions.Design/methodology/approachThis review uses a topical literature survey and synthesis method to critique conventional vs integral‐type communications strategies and suggests alternatives.FindingsCommunications are tricky. The alignment of the sender and receiver are crucial and can be improved or degraded depending on the contextual framework of each, as well as the perceived agency and interaction of the sender/receiver actors.Research limitations/implicationsThis work was accomplished from the single viewpoint of the author, with literature references and a US‐centric, western bias.Practical implicationsThe discussion about the variety of communication stratagem from the perspective of the receiver and, the context of the message, as well as the motivation of the sender may provoke changes which in turn could allow greater chance for success in establishing a glide path to sustainability.Originality/valueThis work is referenced to highlight the work of others, including the author of the book reviewed. The synthesis and suggested communications approach is original to the author of the paper.