Economists insist that recovery is at hand, yet unemployment remains
high, real estate values continue to sink, and governments stagger under record deficits. The End of Growth proposes a startling
diagnosis: humanity has reached a fundamental turning point in its
economic history. The expansionary trajectory of industrial civilization
is colliding with non-negotiable natural limits.
Richard
Heinberg's latest landmark work goes to the heart of the ongoing
financial crisis, explaining how and why it occurred, and what we must
do to avert the worst potential outcomes. Written in an engaging, highly readable style, it shows why growth is being blocked by three factors:
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"This was a tough book to get through since it is so full of economic data and theory, but the argument is undeniable. The economy as we know it is over, and the sooner we embrace this fact and work towards new, community based, non-growth driven solutions, the better off we all are."
— Jason (4 out of 5 stars)
“Clearly written and argued…Heinberg’s contrarian view on growth is highly recommended to all [listeners] interested in economics, sustainability, and future trends.”
— Library JournalClearly written and argued . . . Heinberg's contrarian view on growth is highly recommended to all [listeners] interested in economics, sustainability, and future trends.
— Library Journal" A little wonky with lots of charts and graphs. But he makes a moderately clear case that growth really has little chance of starting up again. We really need to be having this conversation, rather than pretending that it can't happen. "
— Tyler, 2/20/2014" A really convincing account of how the current economic crisis has its origins in much deeper forces that mark the end of easy economic growth and the need to confront the issues of resource depletion, income inequality and economic stability. "
— Ed, 2/11/2014" Terrific book! Highly recommended. Although great ideas, some of the solutions are so far away from any political will to implement that they seem almost impossible. The detail to which the author details the issues and causes is at times almost overwhelming. "
— Tom, 2/4/2014" I am torn about this book. It was a bit of a downer pretty much the whole way through. I liked that it touched on the financial markets, but not really in any depth. The same could be said for the entire book. I felt like "Limits to Growth" was a better argument for the end of growth concept, and I feel like his suggestions amounted to "go read these other resources". Still, and important topic to ponder. "
— Steve, 1/26/2014" This is a great introduction to alternative economics. The thesis is that due to a shortage of fossil fuels and other resources (minerals, water, food) the global economy will contract rather than grow in the future. He makes a pretty persuasive argument. "
— John, 1/15/2014" This book made me want to hide under the bed. The author makes a pretty compelling case that we're all hurtling toward resource depletion and financial collapse. I want my mommy. "
— Jacqui, 1/11/2014" January book group selection. Important topic, poorly written book. Michael Lewis does an infinitely better job of making economic topics readable and understandable. Plus the author gave short shrift to the "adapting" part. "
— Joan, 11/25/2013" If you're already a reader of theoildrum.com, Charles Hugh Smith's blog, or John Michael Greer's blog, you won't learn anything new from this book. "
— Joshua, 11/13/2013" Sobering analysis of our post-carbon future. Compelling argument to stay clear of the stock market and to take predictions of recent economic recovery with a healthy dose of scepticism. "
— Derek, 11/12/2013" This is by far the most comprehensive and honest analysis of our global economy and where it's headed than anything else I have read. A must read for anyone who is concerned about what the future might be like. "
— Katie, 11/2/2013" a bit long, but very good "
— Chris, 2/23/2013" If you want to understand why the U.S. can't seem to shrug off the effects of the recession, or get a glimpse of what is in store for your future, you shouldn't miss this book. "
— Gregj, 6/24/2012" a very compelling book. I've read many books about economic forecasts, this one stands out. a good case made in clear language. "
— Brett, 6/18/2012" A frightening perspective of the future with the Earth's finite resources. Did we really think they would simply last forever? I fear for my grandchildren. "
— Karin, 3/13/2012Richard Heinberg is the author of over a dozen books, including The Party’s Over, Peak Everything, and The End of Growth. He is widely regarded as one of the world’s most effective communicators of the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels. He has authored numerous essays and articles that have appeared in such journals as Nature, the Ecologist, and Public Policy Research, and has appeared in many film and television documentaries, including Leonardo DiCaprio’s 11th Hour. Richard is a recipient of the M. King Hubbert Award for Excellence in Energy Education. He lives in northern California with his wife and is an avid violin player.
Paul Boehmer is an American actor best known for his numerous appearances in the Star Trek universe, in addition to Frasier, Judging Amy, Guiding Light, and All My Children. He is a 1992 Masters of Fine Arts graduate of the Professional Theater Training Program at the University of Delaware. As a narrator, Paul has won several AudioFile Earphones Awards as well as an Audie Award.
Paul Boehmer is an American actor best known for his numerous appearances in the Star Trek universe, in addition to Frasier, Judging Amy, Guiding Light, and All My Children. He is a 1992 Masters of Fine Arts graduate of the Professional Theater Training Program at the University of Delaware. As a narrator, Paul has won several AudioFile Earphones Awards as well as an Audie Award.