Degrowth

Mainstream Views

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Economic Growth is Necessary for Poverty Reduction and Improved Living Standards

The mainstream economic perspective posits that economic growth, typically measured by GDP, is crucial for alleviating poverty and improving overall living standards. Growth creates jobs, increases income, and generates tax revenue that can be used to fund social programs, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. A degrowth strategy, which deliberately aims to reduce economic output, is seen as counterproductive because it could lead to job losses, reduced income, and decreased funding for essential services, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable populations. Empirical evidence suggests a strong correlation between economic growth and poverty reduction globally (Dollar & Kraay, 2002). Furthermore, technological advancements and innovation, often spurred by economic growth, contribute to improved healthcare, sanitation, and access to essential resources.

Sustainable Development through Green Growth and Technological Innovation

Rather than degrowth, the mainstream view advocates for sustainable development through 'green growth.' This approach focuses on decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation by increasing resource efficiency, investing in renewable energy, and promoting technological innovation. Green growth aims to achieve economic progress while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions and minimizing environmental impact. Policies such as carbon pricing, investments in clean energy technologies, and regulations promoting sustainable practices are considered essential tools for achieving green growth. The OECD, for instance, actively promotes green growth strategies among its member countries (OECD, 2011). Proponents argue that technological innovation can provide solutions to environmental challenges without necessitating a contraction of the economy. Examples include advancements in renewable energy technologies, carbon capture and storage, and sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion

The mainstream view is that degrowth is an impractical and undesirable strategy for addressing environmental challenges and promoting societal well-being. Instead, mainstream economics supports sustainable development achieved through continued economic growth, technological innovation, and policies that promote resource efficiency and environmental protection. While acknowledging the need to address environmental concerns, the mainstream perspective emphasizes that reducing economic output is not the solution; instead, a transition to a greener, more sustainable growth model is required.

References

Dollar, D., & Kraay, A. (2002). Growth is good for the poor. Journal of Economic Growth, 7(3), 195-225.
OECD. (2011). Towards Green Growth. OECD Publishing.
World Bank. (2023). Poverty and Shared Prosperity Report 2022: Correcting Course. World Bank, Washington, DC.

Alternative Views

1. Degrowth as Re-Tribalization and Deliberate Technological Regression

This perspective argues that degrowth isn't just about reducing GDP; it's about fundamentally restructuring society into smaller, more localized, and technologically simpler communities. Proponents envision a return to pre-industrial or early-industrial modes of production, arguing that large-scale industrial civilization is inherently unsustainable and alienating. They see modern technology as a tool of oppression and environmental destruction, advocating for its selective dismantling in favor of traditional crafts and localized knowledge. This viewpoint suggests a return to localized self-sufficiency where communities control their resources and prioritize ecological harmony over material wealth. Critics of technology argue that things like renewable energy at scale or cellular agriculture reinforce centralization, extraction, and global supply chains, while appropriate technology might be an inherently constrained concept because its scaling requires global resource use and specialization. This view draws inspiration from anarchist primitivism and deep ecology movements.

Attributed to: Inspired by thinkers like John Zerzan and proponents of deep ecology; critiques of centralized technology present in various anarchist publications.

2. Degrowth as a Tool for Neo-Malthusian Population Control

This perspective views degrowth as a veiled attempt to drastically reduce the human population, believing that environmental concerns are a pretext for implementing coercive population control measures. Proponents of this view suggest that a shrinking economy will inevitably lead to decreased living standards, resource scarcity, and social unrest, ultimately resulting in a significant decline in population through starvation, disease, or forced migration. They see degrowth advocates as elites who prioritize the environment over human well-being and are willing to sacrifice the lives of ordinary people to achieve their ecological goals. Some proponents point to the historic advocacy of some environmental groups for population control as evidence of this agenda. The argument is that even if degrowth is well-intentioned, the inevitable consequences will be mass suffering and death.

Attributed to: Often found in conspiracy theory circles and some right-wing political commentary; draws on historical anxieties about Malthusian economics.

3. Degrowth as a Deliberate Strategy to Weaken Western Dominance

This viewpoint posits that degrowth is secretly promoted by countries or groups seeking to undermine the economic and geopolitical power of Western nations. The argument is that by advocating for a reduction in economic activity, degrowth advocates are intentionally weakening the West's industrial capacity, technological innovation, and military strength, thereby creating opportunities for other nations to rise in global prominence. This perspective often accuses degrowth proponents of being 'useful idiots' or even conscious agents of foreign powers who are using environmentalism as a smokescreen to advance their geopolitical interests. A stronger framing is that wealthy nations achieved their wealth through resource extraction and colonialism, and degrowth is a necessary correction even if it means a change in the global power dynamic.

Attributed to: Frequently seen in nationalist and anti-globalist circles; echoes Cold War-era anxieties about economic subversion.

4. Degrowth as a Spiritual Path to Inner Fulfillment

This perspective frames degrowth not primarily as an economic or environmental strategy, but as a spiritual path towards inner peace and liberation. The argument is that consumerism and the relentless pursuit of economic growth are inherently unsatisfying and lead to a sense of emptiness and alienation. By embracing a simpler, less materialistic lifestyle, individuals can free themselves from the chains of desire and find deeper meaning and purpose in life through practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and connection with nature. This view emphasizes the importance of cultivating inner values such as compassion, gratitude, and contentment, rather than relying on external sources of validation. Degrowth becomes a tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth. This perspective draws upon Buddhist philosophy, mindfulness practices, and certain branches of existentialism.

Attributed to: Influenced by Buddhist philosophy, mindfulness teachings, and certain strands of existentialist thought; finds expression in movements promoting simple living and intentional communities.

References

1. Dollar, D., & Kraay, A. (2002). Growth is good for the poor. Journal of Economic Growth, 7(3), 195-225.
1. OECD. (2011). Towards Green Growth. OECD Publishing.
1. World Bank. (2023). Poverty and Shared Prosperity Report 2022: Correcting Course. World Bank, Washington, DC.

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