Capitalism in the Anthropocene: Ecological Ruin or Ecological Revolution

Capitalism has caused the current climate emergency, marking a shift in the Earth's biological cycles and an existential crisis for humanity. Addressing the social aspects of this emergency is essential for developing the ecological and social resources for a new journey of hope.

Format: Hardback
Length: 576 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2022
Publisher: Monthly Review Press,U.S.

Over the past 11,700 years, during which human civilization has flourished, the Earth has resided within what geologists refer to as the Holocene Epoch. However, recent scientific revelations indicate that the Holocene Epoch, which marked a period of relative stability in geological terms, has come to an end, giving way to a new and more perilous Anthropocene Epoch that commenced around 1950. This epoch is distinguished by a significant "anthropogenic rift" in Earth's biological cycles, heralding a transformative era in which human activities have emerged as the primary geological force shaping the planet as a whole. Simultaneously, it has sparked an existential crisis for the global population, as human actions now pose a grave threat to the Earth's ecosystems and the well-being of future generations.

The question that arises is: what has precipitated this monumental shift in Earth's history? In his comprehensive examination, John Bellamy Foster sheds light on the underlying cause of this global crisis. He argues that the advent of a globalized system of capital accumulation has led humanity to engage in actions that have fouled its own nest. The outcome is a planetary emergency that imperils the present and future generations, casting doubt on the continuation of civilization and ultimately jeopardizing the very survival of humanity itself.

To address this pressing issue, it is imperative to delve into the social dimensions of the current planetary emergency. This entails exploring the theoretical, historical, and practical implications of capitalism's alteration of the planetary environment. By doing so, we can cultivate the ecological and social resources necessary for embarking on a new journey of hope and resilience.

In conclusion, the Anthropocene Epoch represents a critical juncture in Earth's history, demanding urgent action and transformative solutions. By recognizing the role of capitalism in creating the current state of climate emergency, we can begin to address the underlying causes of this crisis and work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Weight: 1014g
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 50 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781583679753