The Zero Marginal Cost Society: The Internet of Things, the Collaborative Commons, and the Eclipse of Capitalism

Introduction

In his book, The Zero Marginal Cost Society, Jeremy Rifkin argues that the world is on the cusp of a new economic revolution. This revolution is being driven by the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), the collaborative commons, and the eclipse of capitalism.

The Internet of Things

The IoT is a network of physical devices that are connected to the Internet and can collect and exchange data. This network is growing rapidly, and it is estimated that there will be over 50 billion IoT devices in use by 2020.

The IoT is having a profound impact on the way we live and work. It is making it possible for us to automate tasks, connect with others, and access information in ways that were never possible before.

The Collaborative Commons

The collaborative commons is a new form of economic organization that is based on sharing and cooperation. This model is in contrast to the traditional capitalist model, which is based on competition and profit.

The collaborative commons is growing rapidly, and it is being used in a wide variety of fields, including education, healthcare, and manufacturing.

The Eclipse of Capitalism

Rifkin argues that the rise of the IoT and the collaborative commons is leading to the eclipse of capitalism. This is because these new technologies are making it possible for people to produce goods and services at a zero marginal cost.

Zero marginal cost means that the cost of producing an additional unit of a good or service is zero. This is in contrast to traditional capitalism, where the cost of producing an additional unit of a good or service increases as the quantity produced increases.

The eclipse of capitalism is a major challenge to the current economic order. However, Rifkin argues that it is also an opportunity to create a more just and sustainable economy.

Conclusion

The Zero Marginal Cost Society is a thought-provoking book that offers a new perspective on the future of the economy. Rifkin argues that the rise of the IoT and the collaborative commons is leading to the eclipse of capitalism and the creation of a new economic order. This new order will be based on sharing and cooperation, and it will offer a more just and sustainable future for humanity.

Why You Should Read This Book

The Zero Marginal Cost Society is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the future of the economy. Rifkin's insights are provocative and challenging, and they offer a new way of thinking about the way we live and work.

If you are looking for a book that will change the way you think about the world, then I highly recommend The Zero Marginal Cost Society.