1Dime Radio Envisioning Socialist Futures: Planning the Economy
Aug 20, 2024
Ferdia O'Driscoll, a founder of Bright Age and Beyond and co-founder of The International Network for Democratic Economic Planning, dives deep into the nuances of socialist economy planning. He emphasizes the importance of creating a unified vision for socialism and critiques existing models, like market socialism. The conversation explores participatory economics, decentralization versus centralization, and the role of consumer needs in planning. O'Driscoll argues for genuine motivation and democratic processes to enhance productivity in a planned economy.
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Vision Vacuum On The Left
- The left lacks a concrete vision of post-capitalism, leaving people disengaged or hopeless instead of becoming socialists.
- Ferdia O'Driscoll argues that presenting detailed alternatives is essential to build and mobilize a movement.
Why He Moved From Engineering To Planning
- Ferdia shifted from engineering to political economy because changing material conditions requires reallocating funds and political will, not just technical fixes.
- He now researches practical models of post-capitalism and co-authors a book on participatory economy.
Connect Through INDEP Network
- Join and engage with networks like the International Network for Democratic Economic Planning to learn and collaborate on democratic planning.
- Use indep.network to connect with activists and researchers working on non-market planning alternatives.