The New Age of Catastrophe

The world is entering a new age of catastrophe, with the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, floods, and nuclear war posing existential threats. This crisis is caused by a multidimensional crisis of the capitalist system, destroying nature, degrading labor, and escalating inter-imperialist conflicts. The far right has been the main political beneficiary, but the new age of catastrophe is also an age of revolt, with mass movements challenging oppression and opening the way to a just and sustainable world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2023
Publisher: Polity Press

The world is entering a period of unprecedented crisis and turmoil. The extraordinary has become commonplace, reminiscent of the last great crisis that occurred between 1914 and 1945, which brought about two world wars, the Great Depression, and the Holocaust. However, now, humanity faces fresh and dire existential threats that demand our immediate attention. The COVID-19 pandemic, devastating wildfires, catastrophic floods, and other extreme weather events caused by the accelerating effects of climate change, as well as the growing danger of nuclear war in the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, all pose significant risks to our existence.

Alex Callinicos, in his analysis, argues that these threats stem from a multidimensional crisis of the capitalist system, which is experiencing severe strain and pushing us towards the brink of societal collapse. This crisis encompasses the relentless destruction of nature, the degrading conditions of labor, a stagnant global economy since the global financial crisis, and escalating inter-imperialist conflicts between the United States, China, and Russia.

So far, the primary political beneficiary of this turbulent era has been the far right, which has the potential to gain control of the White House once again. However, it is important to recognize that the new age of catastrophe is also a time of revolt and resistance. Following on from movements like Black Lives Matter, the #MeToo protests, and the revolts in Sudan, Sri Lanka, and Iran, numerous faultlines within the system are poised to ignite further mass movements that will challenge various forms of oppression and pave the way toward a just and sustainable world.

The challenges we face are immense, but we must remain steadfast in our determination to confront them head-on. We must recognize that the capitalist system, driven by profit motives and unchecked greed, has perpetuated inequality, injustice, and environmental degradation. It is time to demand a change that prioritizes the well-being and dignity of all people and the planet we inhabit.

In this era of crisis, we must come together as a global community, transcending borders and differences, to address these pressing issues. We must prioritize renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and social justice to create a world that is resilient, equitable, and sustainable for future generations. We must also work towards disarmament and non-proliferation, reducing the risk of nuclear war and promoting peace and stability.

Moreover, we must recognize the power of grassroots movements and social activism. Ordinary people, driven by their passion and determination, have the ability to bring about significant change and challenge the status quo. We must support and amplify their voices, ensuring that their concerns are heard and their actions are recognized.

In conclusion, the world is at a critical juncture, and the time for action is now. We must embrace the challenges we face with resilience, determination, and hope. We must recognize that the road ahead may be difficult, but with collective effort and a shared vision, we can create a world that is just, sustainable, and prosperous for all. Let us rise.

Weight: 368g
Dimension: 230 x 152 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509554171