After the crash of 2008 and the shut-downs of the pandemic, the rush was on for business to “get back to normal”. To many governments this has meant “getting growth back on track”. Some have talked about “clean growth” and “sustainable capitalism” supported by “disruptive technologies” being the world’s salvation. Even before COVID, the Green New Deal came to prominence. All seem to promise that we can live our lives as before, but cleaner and greener.
On the other side, there are those who think that only a significant cut in consumption will save the planet, subscribing to Kenneth Boulding’s mantra that “Anyone who believes in indefinite growth in anything physical, on a physically finite planet, is either mad or an economist.”
This session will dissect what we mean by growth and the various ways that have been proposed to keep the economy growing. We will discuss what de-growth might look like, and ask “is it really necessary?" We will then address the ultimate question: “Does growth matter?”
References:
“Doughnut Economics” Kate Raworth. 2017
“Prosperity without Growth” Tim Jackson. 2017
“The Day the World Stops Shopping” J.B. McKinnon. 2021
“The Economics of Happiness” Mark Anielski. 2007
“Happiness - Lessons from a New Science” Richard Layard 2005
“The Green New Deal” Jeremy Rifkin. 2019
When
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Where
Protecting your health
BC Greens recognize that airborne illnesses and pollutants pose a significant health risk to everyone, especially the young, elderly, and immunocompromised, while caregivers, healthcare professionals, and support staff come into regular contact with vulnerable persons. When choosing venues, BC Greens prioritize outdoor spaces, and indoor spaces with good ventilation. In closed indoor spaces, we encourage attendees to wear well-fitting masks (N95, KN95, or KF94), especially during the respiratory-illness season.
Creating safe spaces
The BC Green Party is committed to providing an environment free of discrimination and harassment, where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, can contribute fully and have equal speaking opportunities. To support this commitment, all event attendees will be expected to follow the standards of our Safe Spaces Participant's Guide.