Do 'Limits of Growth' Cripple the Good Society?

In: Dissent: a journal devoted to radical ideas and the values of socialism and democracy, Band 25, Heft 4, S. 453-471

Abstract

Since 1945, rapid growth has been prized by Western governments. Anxiety raised by this policy is illustrated in D. Meadows's et al, The Limits of Growth (New York: New American Library/Signet, 1972). Although many have disputed the claims of this text, balanced growth & social & political limits are currently accepted versions of 'limits to growth.' Two features of this tenet are given: the whole of democratic politics should be based upon it; & it should be strongly considered when making political & economic decisions. For the masses, the probability of shortages, particularly of energy, is the most convincing standard for the need for great change in lifestyle. Huge financial & labor commitments must be made to make the transition to a society that is energy efficient & fully employed, without exhausting the world's resources. P. Montgomery.