Description
A highly readable yet challenging book ideal for academics, students and professionals in economics, sustainability and environmental studies and policy. The author provides a critical examination of the failings of mainstream economics and the resultant environmental problems we are facing. Most importantly he articulates what an alternative economics for sustainability would look like in both theory and practice if we are to pursue a truly sustainable future.A main point raised is that fundamental issues such as the theory of science and role of science in society, paradigms in economics, ideological orientations and institutional arrangements need to be critically examined rather than assumed to be given in any serious attempt to come to grips with unsustainable trends. Amongst its features, the book provides a brief history of economics and looks at the intersection between politics and the often hidden values embedded in economics. Also covered are the roles of individuals and organizations, political structures and institutions and democracy, environmental decision-making, sustainability assessment and a vision of a future underpinned by sustainability economics. The theory is underpinned by case studies, explanatory figures, further reading sections and discussion questions to facilitate debate and learning.
