In this white paper, John Fullerton introduces the concept of Regenerative Capitalism, which seeks to transform the current economic system by adopting principles from nature and living systems. The paper, launched in 2015, advocates for an economic model that is not only sustainable but regenerative, focusing on long-term well-being for all stakeholders rather than short-term profits. It outlines eight key principles, including understanding the economy as part of nested systems, viewing wealth holistically, and honoring community and place. The approach emphasizes biomimicry, systems theory, and holistic science to create a resilient and sustainable economic framework[3][5][4].
In this book, economist Herman E. Daly and theologian John B. Cobb, Jr., argue that conventional economics and a growth-oriented industrial economy have led to environmental disaster. They propose a new economic model that emphasizes community, environmental sustainability, and a holistic approach to economic policy. The authors suggest policies such as taxing industrial polluters, worker participation in management and ownership, reduced military spending, and a more self-sufficient national economy. The book is recognized for its comprehensive critique of neoclassical economic theory and its vision for a sustainable market guided by values and emotions as well as rational economic thought.
(Conversation recorded on October 10th, 2024)
Our modern economic system is designed to maximize financial capital, viewing money as though it were wealth itself. But what would happen if we viewed wealth more holistically, taking into account our natural, social, cultural, and human capital, too?
In this conversation, Nate is joined by unconventional economist John Fullerton to discuss the principles of regenerative economics and the need for shifts in our economic paradigms from reductionist thinking to holistic thinking. Fullerton emphasizes the importance of understanding economies as living systems, advocating for financial and monetary systems that align with the patterns of life.
If regenerative economics represents a societal shift towards sustainability, how does our modern financial system act as a barrier to that shift? If the ‘myth of separation’ contributes to our current economic problems, what types of radical change are needed to reconcile our values dissonance as our crises deepen and accelerate? Finally, how can we teach ourselves to differentiate between the real economy and the financial economy – and to value the things that genuinely add to human and planetary well-being?
About John Fullerton:
John Fullerton is an unconventional economist, impact investor, writer, and some have said philosopher. Building on and integrating the work of many in the field of ecological economics, he is the architect of Regenerative Economics, first conceived in his 2015 booklet, “Regenerative Capitalism: How Universal Patterns and Principles Will Shape the New Economy.”
After a successful 20-year career on Wall Street where he was a Managing Director of what he calls “the old JPMorgan,” John listened to a persistent inner voice and walked away in 2001 with no plan but many questions. He went on to create The Capital Institute in 2010, which is dedicated to the bold reimagination of economics and finance in service to life. John is also the Chairman of New Day Enterprises, PBC, the co-founder of Grasslands, LLC, and a board member of both the Savory Institute and Stone Acres Farm.
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