Decelerationists

Decelerationists are proponents of slowing the pace of technological, economic, and social change as a deliberate political or philosophical stance. They oppose the premise that rapid acceleration of capitalism, automation, or disruptive technologies will automatically yield progress or emancipation, arguing instead that unchecked speed amplifies risk, inequality, and social disruption.

Core ideas associated with decelerationism center on precaution, democratic oversight, and ecological sustainability. Proponents emphasize deliberative governance, robust institutions, and public accountability for technological development. They often advocate slower innovation cycles, stronger regulatory frameworks, localization or de-automation of certain systems, and policies aimed at reducing ecological footprints and widening social safety nets. The aim is to preserve human autonomy, cultural diversity, and long-term stability in the face of rapid change.

Decelerationists are typically positioned in relation to accelerationist thought as critics or reformulators rather than a single school. Rather than embracing inevitability in the face of acceleration, they call for intentional design and restraint, arguing that societal well-being depends on thoughtful pacing, ethical foresight, and inclusive decision-making about which technologies and practices should advance.

History and discourse around decelerationism is diffuse and contested. The term has appeared in contemporary philosophy, cultural criticism, and political theory as a counterpoint to accelerationist claims. Because it encompasses diverse currents, there is no unified program or set of tenets, leading to ongoing debate about feasibility, desirability, and methods for achieving deceleration in practice.

Critics argue that decelerationism can verge on technophobia or stagnation, while supporters contend it offers a practical framework for addressing existential risks, social inequality, and ecological limits without presupposing that faster is inherently better.