Good Life Beyond Growth

<p>Many countries have experienced a decline of economic growth for decades an effect that was only aggravated by the recent global financial crisis. What if in the 21st century this is no longer an exception but the general rule? Does an economy without growth necessarily bring hardship and crises as is often assumed? Or could it be a chance for a better life? Authors have long argued that money added to an income that already secures basic needs no longer enhances well-being. Also ecological constraints and a sinking global absorption capacity increasingly reduce the margin of profitability on investments. Efforts to restore growth politically however often lead to reduced levels of social protection reduced ecological and health standards unfair tax burdens and rising inequalities. Thus it is time to dissolve the link between economic growth and the good life. </p><p>This book argues that a good life beyond growth is not only possible but highly desirable. It conceptualizes the good life as a fulfilled life that is embedded in social relations and at peace with nature independent of a mounting availability of resources. In bringing together experts from different fields this book opens an interdisciplinary discussion that has often been restricted to separate disciplines. Philosophers sociologists economists and activists come together to discuss the political and social conditions of a good life in societies which no longer rely on economic growth and no longer call for an ever expanding circle of extraction consumption pollution waste conflict and psychological burnout.</p><p>Read together these essays will have a major impact on the debates about economic growth economic and ecological justice and the good life in times of crisis.</p>