The End of Capitalism Why Growth and Climate Protection Are Incompatible – And How We Will Live in the Future

About this book

How do we manage to transition to a more sustainable world without the collapse of the economy?

Capitalism has brought about many positive things. At the same time, however, it is ruining the climate and the environment, so that humanity's very existence is now at risk. 'Green growth' is supposed to be the saviour, but economics expert and bestselling author Ulrike Herrmann disagrees. In this book, she explains in a clear and razor-sharp manner why we need 'green shrinkage' instead.

Greenhouse gases are increasing dramatically and unchecked. This failure is no coincidence, because the climate crisis goes to the heart of capitalism. Prosperity and growth are only possible if technology is used and energy is utilised. Unfortunately, however, green energy from the sun and wind will never be enough to fuel global growth. The industrialised countries must therefore bid farewell to capitalism and strive for a circular economy in which only what can be recycled is consumed.

Herrmann makes a convincing argument that we won't get anywhere without personal restrictions and government planning. Her example for a solution is the British war economy of the 1940s. This is not a utopian scenario, but a comprehensive example of the restrictions and government-led plans needed now and in the future.

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Biography

Ulrike Herrmann was born in Hamburg in 1964, trained as a bank clerk, studied philosophy and history, and graduated from the Henri Nannen School. Since 2000 she has been an economics correspondent for taz, writing about social and economic policy issues. She appears regularly on German TV and radio, is a board member for cultural and climate institutions, and often gives talks on economic topics at foundations, institutes, and universities. She has previously published four books, which all became bestsellers in Germany.

David Shaw works as a journalist for Germany's international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle, as well as translating from several languages, including German, Dutch, Russian, and French. He lives in Berlin.