History of the Future of Economic Growth: Historical Roots of Current Debates on Sustainable Degrowth

The future of economic growth is a crucial question of the twenty-first century, with declining growth rates, climate change, and socio-economic inequalities prompting alternatives beyond growth. This edited volume explores the history of economic growth as a central tenet of developmental strategies, addressing its origins, evolution, and alternative models such as sustainable development and degrowth. It aims to provide historical depth to the ongoing discussion on suitable principles of global development for students and academics in various fields.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 08 March 2018
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The twenty-first century is witnessing a pivotal moment in shaping the future of economic growth, as concerns about declining rates, climate change, and socio-economic disparities drive a growing demand for alternative approaches beyond mere expansion. However, the current debates surrounding sustainability, post-growth, and degrowth lack a comprehensive historical perspective. This edited volume seeks to bridge that gap by bringing together original contributions that explore the historical roots and evolution of the growth paradigm, from its seventeenth-century origins to the present day. It also examines sustainable development, sustainable growth, and degrowth as examples of alternative developmental models. By delving into the mixed legacy of growth, encompassing its contributions to increased life expectancies and improved comfort, as well as its potential threats to personal livelihoods and entire societies, the editors aim to provide historical depth to the ongoing discussions on appropriate principles for global development in the present and future.

This book is particularly relevant for students and academics in environmental, social, economic, and international history, political science, environmental studies, and economics. It also appeals to those engaged in ongoing discussions about growth, sustainable development, degrowth, and broader issues related to the future. By examining the historical context of economic growth, this volume offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing societies as they navigate the complexities of the 21st century.

The editors of History of the Future of Economic Growth have assembled a diverse group of scholars from various fields, ensuring a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the topic. The chapters in the book cover a wide range of subjects, including the historical roots of the growth paradigm, its evolution through different periods, the impact of technological advancements on economic growth, the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability, and the challenges and opportunities associated with alternative developmental models.

One of the key themes of the book is the historical trajectory of the growth paradigm. The editors argue that the growth model has been a central tenet of developmental strategies for centuries, driven by the desire for economic progress and prosperity. However, as the book highlights, the growth paradigm has also come under increasing scrutiny in recent years, as its negative impacts on the environment, social inequality, and human well-being become more apparent.

The editors argue that a historical perspective is essential in understanding the origins and evolution of the growth paradigm. By examining the historical roots of the growth model, scholars can gain insights into the factors that have shaped its development and the assumptions that have underpinned it. This understanding can help us to identify the weaknesses and limitations of the growth paradigm and to explore alternative approaches that are more sustainable and equitable.

Another important theme of the book is the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability. The editors argue that the growth paradigm has often been at odds with environmental concerns, as it has prioritized short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability. However, as the book highlights, there are also examples of sustainable growth that have reconciled economic development with environmental protection.

The editors also examine the challenges and opportunities associated with alternative developmental models, such as sustainable development, sustainable growth, and degrowth. These models seek to address the negative impacts of the growth paradigm by promoting more sustainable and equitable economic practices. However, the editors note that these models also face their own challenges and limitations, and that a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach is necessary to achieve their goals.

In conclusion, History of the Future of Economic Growth is a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussions about growth, sustainability, and degrowth. By providing a comprehensive historical perspective on the growth paradigm, the book helps to shed light on the challenges and opportunities facing societies as they strive for sustainable and equitable development. The editors have assembled a diverse group of scholars from various fields, ensuring a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the topic. This book will be of interest to students and academics in environmental, social, economic, and international history, political science, environmental studies, and economics, as well as those engaged in ongoing discussions about growth, sustainable development, degrowth, and the future.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 156 x 230 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138499676