Chapter 1: The Concepts of Growth and Degrowth
Summary:
This chapter defines growth and degrowth and explores their contrasting assumptions about the economy and society. Growth proponents advocate for continuous economic expansion, believing it leads to progress and prosperity. Degrowth advocates, in contrast, argue that growth is unsustainable and has detrimental social and environmental consequences. They propose degrowth, a planned reduction in economic output to stabilize resource use and promote well-being.
Example:
The global economy has experienced sustained growth since the Industrial Revolution. However, this growth has been accompanied by rising inequality, environmental degradation, and climate change. Degrowth advocates argue that pursuing infinite growth on a finite planet is ecologically impossible and socially harmful.
Chapter 2: The Impossibility of Perpetual Growth
Summary:
This chapter examines the physical and economic limits to perpetual growth. It argues that the Earth's resources are finite and cannot sustain continuous expansion. The chapter also explores the social and environmental consequences of growth, such as resource depletion, pollution, and climate change.
Example:
The extraction of fossil fuels, a major driver of economic growth, is rapidly depleting global reserves. This is leading to rising energy prices, geopolitical instability, and the need to transition to renewable energy sources.
Chapter 3: The Five Capitals of Degrowth
Summary:
This chapter introduces the "five capitals" framework of degrowth. These capitals, which are essential for human well-being, include natural capital (resources), social capital (relationships), human capital (skills), cultural capital (knowledge), and made capital (technology). Degrowth aims to maintain or enhance these capitals while reducing economic output.
Example:
Shifting from car-centric transportation to walking, cycling, and public transit can reduce fossil fuel consumption (natural capital) while improving community health (social capital) and fostering a sense of place (cultural capital).
Chapter 4: Degrowth in Practice: Towards a Post-Growth Society
Summary:
This chapter provides practical examples of how degrowth can be implemented. It explores how to transition to renewable energy sources, reduce resource consumption, and promote local economies. The chapter also discusses the social and cultural changes that are necessary for a post-growth society.
Example:
A degrowth transition often involves supporting local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture (natural capital), creating community-owned renewable energy systems (made capital), and investing in education and skill development (human capital).
Chapter 5: Degrowth and the Future of Work
Summary:
This chapter explores the impact of degrowth on the labor market. It argues that degrowth can lead to a reduction in working hours, a focus on creative and meaningful work, and a shift towards a more decentralized and flexible economy.
Example:
Reducing economic output and adopting degrowth principles could result in a shorter work week, allowing people more time for leisure, community engagement, and personal development.
Chapter 6: Degrowth and Global Justice
Summary:
This chapter examines the implications of degrowth for global justice. It argues that degrowth can help to reduce inequality, promote environmental sustainability, and address the needs of marginalized communities.
Example:
Degrowth policies that prioritize the reduction of high carbon consumption in wealthy countries can free up resources to support sustainable development efforts in lower-income countries.
