The Little Treatise on Sustainable Degrowth

By Serge Latouche

In his book, "The Little Treatise on Sustainable Degrowth," Serge Latouche argues that the current economic system is unsustainable and that we need to adopt a new economic model based on degrowth. Latouche defines degrowth as "a voluntary reduction in the scale of the economy, with the aim of achieving a more sustainable and equitable society."

Why We Need Degrowth

Latouche argues that the current economic system is based on the assumption that economic growth is necessary for human progress. However, he argues that this assumption is false and that economic growth actually leads to a number of negative consequences, including:

• Environmental degradation: Economic growth requires the extraction and consumption of resources, which leads to pollution, climate change, and other environmental problems.
• Social inequality: Economic growth benefits the wealthy disproportionately, while the poor are left behind.
• Psychological stress: The pursuit of economic growth leads to stress, anxiety, and other mental health problems.

The Principles of Degrowth

Latouche outlines a number of principles that should guide a degrowth economy. These principles include:

• Reducing resource consumption: We need to reduce our consumption of resources, both renewable and non-renewable.
• Localizing production: We need to produce goods and services locally, rather than relying on long-distance transportation.
• Sharing and cooperation: We need to share resources and cooperate with each other, rather than competing for them.
• Reducing inequality: We need to reduce inequality, both within and between countries.
• Revaluing non-economic values: We need to revalue non-economic values, such as community, culture, and the environment.

The Benefits of Degrowth

Latouche argues that degrowth can lead to a number of benefits, including:

• A healthier environment: Degrowth can help to reduce pollution, climate change, and other environmental problems.
• A more just society: Degrowth can help to reduce inequality and create a more just society.
• A more fulfilling life: Degrowth can help us to live more fulfilling lives, by reducing stress and anxiety and allowing us to focus on what is truly important.

Conclusion

Latouche concludes that degrowth is the only way to achieve a sustainable and equitable future. He calls on us to embrace degrowth and to work together to create a better world.

Call to Action

If you are interested in learning more about degrowth, I encourage you to read "The Little Treatise on Sustainable Degrowth" by Serge Latouche. This book is a powerful and persuasive argument for degrowth, and it will change the way you think about the economy.