ICTA-UAB researcher Giorgos Kallis publishes “The Case of 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 published by Polity, will be an important contribution to one of the thorniest and most pressing debates of our era. Degrowth is considered one of the most important ideas of the 21st century and this book is its Manifesto.  It offers a mature, rigorous, practical analysis that will guide grassroots and institutional politics so they can realize a transformation akin to degrowth and turn the current global crisis into a new opportunity and pathway towards more sustainable societies. The Case for Degrowth provides the why, the where and the how of a better economy and a richer society. Its vision is needed now more than ever.

The book is available here