Decelerationism

Decelerationism is a philosophical and political movement advocating for a deliberate reduction in global economic growth, technological advancement, and population expansion. Proponents argue that unchecked growth leads to severe ecological degradation, social inequality, and long-term existential risks, such as climate change, resource depletion, and systemic collapse. The term gained prominence in the early 21st century through discussions in environmentalism, post-growth economics, and speculative fiction.

Central to decelerationism is the idea that modern industrial society’s reliance on perpetual expansion is unsustainable. Critics of growth, including economists like Kate Raworth and thinkers like Tim Jackson, argue that GDP-driven development prioritizes short-term gains over long-term stability. Decelerationists propose alternatives such as degrowth—a voluntary reduction in production and consumption—to shift toward more equitable, resilient, and ecologically balanced societies. This often involves redistributing wealth, simplifying technology, and revaluing non-monetary forms of well-being, such as community and cultural preservation.

The movement intersects with broader critiques of capitalism, particularly its extractive and exploitative tendencies. Some decelerationists draw parallels to historical collapses, such as the fall of the Roman Empire or the Easter Island civilization, where overconsumption and environmental strain contributed to societal decline. Others connect it to philosophical traditions like stoicism or Buddhist non-attachment, emphasizing moderation and mindfulness in resource use.

Decelerationism is not universally accepted, however. Critics argue that abrupt economic contraction could exacerbate poverty, unemployment, and social unrest. Supporters counter that gradual, managed transitions—such as renewable energy shifts or universal basic income—could mitigate these risks while fostering sustainability. The debate remains contentious, particularly in policy circles, where growth remains a dominant economic metric. Despite its challenges, decelerationism continues to influence discussions on sustainable development, climate policy, and alternative economic models.