About this item
Highlights
- A Publishers Weekly Most Ancitipated Book of Spring 2025A bold call to abandon the myth of endless economic growth and embrace a sustainable, just, and thriving future.
- Author(s): Timothée Parrique
- 288 Pages
- Business + Money Management, Environmental Economics
Description
Book Synopsis
A Publishers Weekly Most Ancitipated Book of Spring 2025
A bold call to abandon the myth of endless economic growth and embrace a sustainable, just, and thriving future.
One of the most deeply ingrained beliefs of our age is that perpetual economic growth is the solution to most, if not all, of society's problem. In Slow Down or Die, French economist Timothée Parrique brilliantly challenges this myth, demonstrating how producing more won't solve climate change, poverty, or inequality. In fact, our obsession with growth is accelerating social and ecological collapse.
Parrique argues that we don't need endless growth to prosper; instead, we must radically rethink how our economies are organized. He reveals that the GDP, the standard measure of progress, is blind to human well-being and environmental health, making it a poor--and indeed, dangerous--guide for the future.
This book proposes a different vision, tracing a path toward a "post-growth" economy where decisions are made collectively and democratically. The goal is not the infinite accumulation of wealth but the creation of a just, equitable, and sustainable society. In this accessible and inspiring work, Parrique invites us to embrace a future of moderation and shared prosperity, proving that slowing down is the key to true progress and equality.
Review Quotes
"A powerful critique of the ideology of growth, Parrique's book debunks the myth that GDP growth is essential for progress, calling instead for a societal shift towards sustainability and equity."--Bon Pote
"As a species we are slowly realizing that our survival depends on our ability to change our economic model. Parrique brilliantly summarizes a vast field of work and outlines key choices: between eco-socialism and barbarism; between de-growth and oblivion; between planning and profit; between resistance or collaboration."--Danny Dorling, Author of Slowdown
"This compelling and passionately-written book shows how growth cures none of our problems."--Chris Goodall, Carbon Commentary
"Timothée Parrique provides an enlightening breakdown of how our obsession with economic growth leads to ecological destruction and social inequality, urging readers to reconsider what true prosperity means."--Resilience
"A comprehensive and accessible critique of our obsession with the GDP, this book shows how degrowth offers a path toward ecological sustainability and social equity. Parrique dismantles the myth of green growth and demonstrates why GDP is not a true measure of a happy life."--Chaire Économie du Climat