Owning the Future: Power and Property in an Age of Crisis

The question of ownership is a critical fault line of our times, and the authors argue that we need to go beyond the limits of the current system, dominated by private enclosure and unequal ownership, to address the crises of our time. They propose a new era of democratic ownership, a reinvention of the firm as a vehicle for collective endeavour and meeting social needs, and a digital commons that uses our data for collective good.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2022
Publisher: Verso Books

The question of ownership has emerged as a central fault line in our times, particularly during the pandemic. Since March 2020, we have witnessed an extraordinary growth of asset manager capitalism, leading to the explosive concentration of wealth in the hands of the already super-rich. This new oligarchy controls various aspects of our social and economic lives, shaping our future in profound ways.

The authors argue that mere redistribution within the current forms of ownership is insufficient to address the crises we face. Our goal must be to go beyond the limits of the current system, dominated by private enclosure and unequal ownership. Only by reimagining how our economy is owned and by whom can we truly address the root causes of these crises, ranging from the pandemic's aftermath to ecological collapse.

The authors propose a systemic change that hinges on a new era of democratic ownership. They envision a reinvention of the firm as a vehicle for collective endeavor and meeting social needs. In contrast to the new oligarchy of platform giants, they advocate for a digital commons that uses our data for the collective good, rather than private profit. This digital commons would empower individuals and communities, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Furthermore, the authors propose a new agenda of decommodification, encompassing both nature and human needs. This would involve a Green New Deal, which aims to address environmental degradation and create a sustainable future. It would also involve collective stewardship of the planet's natural wealth, ensuring that resources are managed responsibly and equitably.

Together, these proposals offer a road map to owning the future and building a better world. By reimagining ownership, we can create a more inclusive and sustainable economy that benefits all individuals and communities. It is time to challenge the dominant narratives and work towards a future where ownership is a force for positive change.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 135 x 207 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839765803