
AI, Trade Wars, Degrowth: What's Next for the Global Economy?
The Michael Shermer Show
00:00
The Paradox of Capitalism and Economic Disparity
This chapter examines the transformative journey of human economic conditions over the last 100,000 years, highlighting the shift from hunter-gatherer societies to complex modern economies. It contrasts the benefits of capitalism, such as reduced global poverty, with the stark inequalities and societal challenges it has generated, particularly the divide between extreme wealth and widespread struggle. The discussion also introduces the concept of 'degrowth,' questioning how advanced economies can balance sustainability with the needs of developing nations amidst ongoing environmental crises.
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