Managing without growth: from simulations to reality

The simulations in the previous chapter provide the basis for discussing policies and other changes to manage without growth in advanced economies. The topics covered are: population, environment, poverty and inequality, reduced working time, investment, technology, international trade, and consumption. The experience of many countries is drawn upon. The conclusion of the book is that there are feasible economic alternatives to the pursuit of economic growth. Getting to them will be beyond us unless we change how we think about our economy, society and environment, and undertake some close reflection on what is important to ourselves and others, including other species. We have to develop a readiness to rethink and transform much of what we have come to take for granted, especially economic growth. If we can do that then we may indeed slow by design, not disaster.