Rentier Capitalism: Who Owns the Economy, and Who Pays for It?

In his book "The New Enclosure," Brett Christophers examines the emergence of rentier capitalism in the early 21st century, where a small elite owns key assets and dominates the economy, leading to vast inequalities and economic stagnation. He provides a forensic examination of the UK case, which is indispensable to understanding and overcoming this phenomenon.

Format: Hardback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2020
Publisher: Verso Books

In this groundbreaking book, the author of "The New Enclosure" delves into a forensic examination and comprehensive critique of early-twenty-first-century capitalism. Brett Christopher frames this phenomenon as "rentier capitalism," where the ownership of critical scarce assets, such as land, intellectual property, natural resources, or digital platforms, becomes paramount, largely controlled by a handful of immensely wealthy companies and individuals. This ownership structure, he argues, leads to a situation where the benefits of economic growth are concentrated among a small elite, while the rest of society bears the burden.

The author's analysis reveals that this divergence is particularly evident in the United Kingdom, where the typical manifestations of rentier capitalism, including vast inequalities and entrenched economic stagnation, are on full display. This has ultimately contributed to the country's decision to pursue Brexit.

This book offers valuable insights for other countries grappling with rentier dominance, providing a deeper understanding of this insidious economic phenomenon and offering strategies for overcoming it. "Rentier capitalism" is a term that is often mentioned but has not been previously analyzed in its entirety. Christopher's comprehensive exploration of this concept sheds light on its various dimensions and nuances, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding its implications.

In conclusion, "The New Enclosure" is a seminal work that offers a critical examination of early-twenty-first-century capitalism and its impact on society. Brett Christopher's insights into rentier capitalism and his analysis of the UK case provide valuable lessons for other countries seeking to navigate this complex economic landscape. By understanding the mechanisms of rentier dominance and developing strategies to overcome it, societies can strive for a more equitable and prosperous future.

Weight: 700g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788739726