by Anne MacLennan
We currently live in a capitalist society, ‘an economic system based on the private ownership of the means of production and their operation for profit’. Capitalism encourages private property, capital accumulation, competitive markets, commodification, and an obsession with ever greater economic growth fostering over-consumption. This is not logical nor sustainable as it implies infinite resources on a finite planet.
The Post Growth Institute points out that the modern capitalist system threatens human survival because expanding total debt sets us up for economic collapse while the expanding ecological footprint sets us up for environmental collapse – which covers climate change and destruction of nature. One could add societal collapse, with increasing inequities, injustice, exploitation and instability, even conflict.
But capitalism is broken, so now is the time to choose what comes next. It can’t just be tweaked. Radical changes are needed and urgently. Change often induces negative emotions and political apprehension. Many think that simpler, planet-friendly lifestyles and business practices are all about giving up good things. In fact, life could be far better and more fulfilling for most people and many are already working to create this better, fairer world.
Cartoon courtesy Joel Pett, USA Today 2009
The Transition Movement is about communities coming together to reimagine and rebuild our world. There is a wealth of information on the website including the seven essentials for a successful community transition. Do we need a Transition Skye?
The One Planet Living framework was created in the UK recognising that we are currently demanding more than our planet can supply, but that it is possible for everyone, everywhere to live happy, healthy lives within the limits of the planet, leaving space for nature.
A Wellbeing Economy focusses on serving people and the planet, not the other way around. Individuals matter. We know for instance that there are many co-benefits to health of planet-friendly living, lowering emissions and working with nature. Heart disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes, respiratory disease, and mental health, can all benefit with resultant cost savings for the NHS.
The Post Growth Institute is ‘an international, not for profit organization working to enable collective wellbeing within ecological limits’. Economics can function without growth as a driving force. Free Money Day on 15th September aims to stimulate a re-think of our relationship to money and encourage generosity
Can we trust leaders focussed on growth at all costs to make the right choices? Maybe we can persuade them by example if enough of us get involved.