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Historically, industrialization, capitalism, and affluence have contributed to the emissions that are warming the planet’s atmosphere. As humanity starts to grapple with the Herculean challenge of decarbonisation, should economic growth be abandoned to stand a chance of success? Would this lead to a better society, especially in already rich nations, freeing them from pointless consumerism? Growth for Good takes these legitimate concerns as a starting point to draw the reader on a journey into the socioeconomic, evolutionary, historical and cultural origins of the growth imperative. Growth is underpinned by the human quest for self-determination, contributes to peaceful conduct of politics and international relations, and the very way our society is organized: capitalism. Ditching it would not only prove impractical, but would exacerbate conflict within and between societies. Growth for Good draws a credible agenda to enrol capitalism in the fight to stave off climate catastrophe, detailing a plan involving an activist government, proactive business, and engaged citizens. |
