A growing number of individuals and organisations are questioning an economy based on limitless growth. There are two broad reasons, they argue, why such an economy is doomed to fail: firstly it exploits the people and depletes the resources it relies on to survive; secondly it is accompanied by unacceptable – even unworkable – levels of inequality, financial instability and social unrest.
From China’s stumbling stock markets to European austerity, global disruptions are leading to the emergence of new economic movements. The rise of anti-austerity parties such as Podemos in Spain and Syriza in Greece is just one example.
While particular communities, political groups and businesses may have adopted economic models that prioritise people, the environment and greater social justice, a key issue is how these models might be scaled up.
Our panel:
Chair - Marc Gunther, editor at large, Guardian Sustainable Business US
Saskia Sassen, Robert S. Lynd professor of sociology and co-chair of The Committee on Global Thought, Columbia University
Hunter Lovins, president, Natural Capitalism Solutions
Vincent Stanley, director of philosophy, Patagonia
Ann Herpel, general coordinator, Park Slope Food Coop
We’ll discuss:
• What alternative economic models are out there?
• Who is putting them into practice?
• What are their risks and opportunities?
• What is the potential of grassroots activity to create meaningful change
• Do these models have the potential to scale?
• Where next?
Event information:
Thursday 12 November 2015, 2.30pm-5pm
The Conrad New York, 102 North End Avenue, New York, NY 10282
This is a free event. Please be aware that the Guardian will not cover travel or accommodation expenses for attendees.
Registration for this event is now closed. Many thanks to everyone who has shown interest and we look forward to meeting those we have sent confirmation emails to.
