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The Paradox of Sustainable Degrowth and a Convivial Alternative

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  • Oscar Krüger

Abstract

Insofar as development implies economic growth, the term ‘sustainable development’ appears to some as a contradiction in terms. However, such conclusions still lack a thorough examination of the conceptual structure of the two terms between which there is a purported contradiction. In order to address this issue, the present paper scrutinises some of the assumptions which underwrite the ideologies of sustainability and of development. It is argued that there are key assumptions which both ideas have in common, and that sustainable development is thus perfectly coherent on a conceptual level. It is alternatives which retain either term (such as ‘sustainable degrowth') that are embroiled in paradox. The paper then examines two concepts for criticising the ideology of economic growth in other terms: dépense and conviviality. It is argued that the latter is preferable to the former for the purpose of developing post-sustainable critiques of growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Oscar Krüger, 2019. "The Paradox of Sustainable Degrowth and a Convivial Alternative," Environmental Values, , vol. 28(2), pages 233-251, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envval:v:28:y:2019:i:2:p:233-251
    DOI: 10.3197/096327119X15515267418548
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bruni, Luigino & Sugden, Robert, 2008. "Fraternity: Why The Market Need Not Be A Morally Free Zone," Economics and Philosophy, Cambridge University Press, vol. 24(1), pages 35-64, March.
    2. Caradonna, Jeremy L., 2014. "Sustainability: A History," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199372409, Decembrie.
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