The Case for Degrowth

The relentless pursuit of economic growth is the defining characteristic of contemporary societies. Yet it benefits few and demands monstrous social and ecological sacrifice. Is there a viable alternative? How can we halt the endless quest to grow global production and consumption and instead secure socio-ecological conditions that support lives worth living for all?  In this compelling book, leading experts Giorgos Kallis, Susan Paulson, Giacomo D’Alisa and Federico Demaria make the case for degrowth - living well with less, by living differently, prioritizing wellbeing, equity and sustainability.  Drawing on emerging initiatives and enduring traditions around the world, they advance a radical degrowth vision and outline policies to shape work and care, income and investment that avoid exploitative and unsustainable practices. Degrowth, they argue, can be achieved through transformative strategies that allow societies to slow down by design, not disaster.  Essential reading for all concerned citizens, policy-makers, and students, this book will be an important contribution to one of the thorniest and most pressing debates of our era.

Preface Acknowledgments 1 A Case for Degrowth Purpose Material and Economic Growth Rhythms of Growth Common Sense Commons and Commoning Degrowth Historical Transformations Notes 2 Sacrifices of Growth The Madness of Compound Growth Pursuit of Growth Drives Debt, Inequality, and Financial Crises Short-Sighted Endeavors to Sustain Growth Ecological Costs of Growth Exploitation: Vital Ingredient for Growth Psycho-Social Foundations of Growth Notes 3 Making Changes on the Ground The Common Sense of Sharing and Living Simply So That Others May Simply Live From Personal to Common Coevolutionary Possibilities Commons That are Already Here Community Economies in Coevolution Limits and Doubts Day by Day Transformation to Degrowth Notes 4 Path-Breaking Reforms A Green New Deal Without Growth Universal Basics Reclaiming the Commons Reduce Working Hours Public Finance That Greens and Equalizes Synergies Shared Planet, Different Realities Notes 5 Strategies for Mobilization Openings Amid Consequences of Growth Challenges Amid Consequences of Growth Alliance-Building Mobilizing for Political Change Exercising, Legislating, and Mobilizing Desired Worlds, Day by Day Notes Frequently Asked Questions Green Growth Growth, Poverty, and Inequality Managing Without Growth You convinced me. But what can I do? Notes Index