Economic Progress

Degrowth: Everything you need to know

Degrowth is the idea that the purpose of the economy should not be growth but people's well-being. Image: Unsplash/andreacau

Olivia Rosane
Freelance Reporter, Ecowatch
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To understand what is meant by degrowth, it’s important to first understand what kind of growth the movement is advocating against.
To understand what is meant by degrowth, it’s important to first understand what kind of growth the movement is advocating against. Image: Unsplash/mikesetchell

The word “degrowth” comes from the French word “décroissance,” which was coined in 1972 by social philosopher André Gorz.
The word “degrowth” comes from the French word “décroissance,” which was coined in 1972 by social philosopher André Gorz. Image: Getty Images/Alain Pitton

Degrowth theorist Jason Hickel argues that this is not possible because economic growth is currently outpacing renewable energy adoption
Degrowth theorist Jason Hickel argues that this is not possible because economic growth is currently outpacing renewable energy adoption Image: Unsplash/logvisuals

A degrowth program would shrink the parts of the economy that are harmful, excessive or predominantly favor the wealthy.
A degrowth program would shrink the parts of the economy that are harmful, excessive or predominantly favor the wealthy. Image: Unsplash/Renaldo Matamoro
Hickel calls Degrowth “a demand targeted at the Global North.
Hickel calls Degrowth “a demand targeted at the Global North. Image: Unsplash/Maria Lupan

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Relatedly, the degrowth movement emerged in Europe and centers wealthier cultures and economies in its program and analysis.
Relatedly, the degrowth movement emerged in Europe and centers wealthier cultures and economies in its program and analysis. Image: Unsplash/tomasjolmes

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