Join international environmental lawyer Farhana Yamin, economist Anne Pettifor, and former UK Climate Change Committee chair Adair Turner as they dive into a heated debate about the role of capitalism in climate action. Yamin argues for dismantling capitalism to avert ecological disaster, while Pettifor emphasizes the need for radical economic reform. Turner advocates for a regulated capitalist approach. Conservative MP Jesse Norman offers counterpoints, questioning if reform within capitalism is enough. The discussion spans public opinion shifts and practical strategies for sustainability.
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insights INSIGHT
Capitalism's Flaws
Capitalism, characterized by endless growth and interchangeable resources, is inherently flawed.
Its extractivist nature, rooted in slavery and colonialism, has led to environmental destruction.
insights INSIGHT
Decarbonization through Capitalism
Decarbonizing the economy is technologically feasible with renewable energy and efficient energy use.
Capitalism, through regulation and incentives, can drive innovation and achieve this goal.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Communism's Environmental Impact
In Poland, under communism, jokes highlighted the lack of choice and market failures.
The Katowice aluminium smelting works, lacking proper pricing mechanisms, became Europe's worst polluting plant.
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Ann Pettifor's 'The Case for the Green New Deal' presents a comprehensive economic plan to address climate change and social inequality. The book argues for a large-scale government investment in green infrastructure and social programs, funded by progressive taxation and public borrowing. Pettifor advocates for a shift away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy sources, emphasizing the need for a just transition that protects workers and communities. The book challenges conventional economic thinking and proposes a new framework for economic growth that prioritizes environmental sustainability and social justice. It offers a detailed roadmap for implementing a Green New Deal, including policy recommendations and concrete examples from around the world.
This Is Not a Drill
an Extinction Rebellion handbook
Farhana Yamin
Last January, before the coronavirus pandemic struck, Intelligence Squared staged a sold-out debate on whether we need a truly radical new economic system to deal with the looming climate catastrophe. While Covid-19 has dominated the headlines for most of the ensuing months, averting ecological disaster remains the single most important issue we face. We therefore restaged the debate online to give all who were unable to attend the in-person event a chance to hear the arguments, ask questions live and cast their vote.
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