Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

The world's problems are well documented and include environmental issues, an inadequate education system, exploitation, warfare, corporate greed, and poor governance. Laura Fienor examines these in detail and provides innovative solutions in Cutting-Edge Ideas: Empowering Agents of Positive World Change. She points out that the prevailing policies and societal norms are geared to perpetuate inequality through a poor education system that applies Western criteria to measure school-level success. Western values and the related financial system were imposed during globalization and the colonial era, and Indigenous cultures and the rich wisdom that they provide were sidelined. Society is now centered on materialism, not considering the greater good. There is widespread dysfunction and emotional distress is on the increase. The result is that the Western model has failed and is no longer sustainable. A fascinating table compares Western and Indigenous values with conclusions that cannot be ignored. A comprehensive set of solutions to these maladies is provided, including a detailed alternative school curriculum. There is practical advice on a range of lifestyle matters such as diet, connecting with nature, and disconnecting from technology. Personal growth is promoted.

Cutting-Edge Ideas blends a wide variety of spiritual practices into a cohesive package that will empower the individual to cope with life while pressing for a radical new approach by those in authority. Laura Fienor draws on Indigenous culture and advocates a return to nature-based spiritual values as diverse as discovering your life purpose, soul agreements, exploring manifestation, synchronicity, higher consciousness, the multiverse, astral travel, and symbols. She quotes extensively from noted authorities, presenting information in a manner that will be readily understood by those readers not familiar with the concepts outlined. The author explains esoteric phenomena such as soul families, soulmates, and twin flames and our relationships with them, as well as the role of Lightworkers. Guidance comes in many forms that involve the spirit world, including spiritual awakening, improving our intuitive side, meditation, and letting go of the ego. This book will certainly appeal to New Age adherents, but will also be an eye-opener for those stuck in the prevailing paradigm. The work is rounded off with comprehensive appendices and an extensive bibliography. It is a plea for sanity amidst the chaos of a world in crisis. Both thought-provoking and highly recommended.