
Economics & Beyond with Rob Johnson
Fred Block: Beyond Industrialism - Building Communities That Work for People
Jan 30, 2025
Fred Block, Research Professor of Sociology at UC Davis and author of The Habitation Society, discusses his vision for an economy that prioritizes community well-being over industrial models. He critiques current economic policies for fostering inequality and stagnation, suggesting a restructured investment in education and public finance. Block explores the implications of corporate influence on vital sectors and advocates for grassroots democracy to empower local communities. He emphasizes the urgent need for reforms to address growing wealth disparities and restore hope in democratic engagement.
01:11:50
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Quick takeaways
- Fred Block argues for transitioning from industrial economic models to a 'Habitation Society' that prioritizes community well-being and service-oriented production.
- Empowering local governance is essential to address inequities, revive democracy, and foster community engagement in shaping neighborhood futures.
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The Inspiration Behind The Habitation Society
The concept of the Habitation Society is rooted in the historical evolution of economic thought, particularly the shift from industrial to post-industrial society. The author draws inspiration from post-industrial theorists of the past, who argued for the need for new institutional structures to accommodate the changing economic landscape that increasingly relies on services and technology. He emphasizes that the production of habitation, which encompasses both hard and soft infrastructure, represents the new paradigm of the economy. This departure from industrial principles is vital to understanding and addressing the shortcomings in how communities are structured and how individuals interact within them.
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