Excerpts from a Q&A with bestselling degrowth author Kohei Saito
Kohei Saito, a Japanese economist, has been making waves in the literary world with his bestselling book “Degrowth: A New Economic Paradigm.” In this groundbreaking work, Saito introduces a new concept of economic growth that prioritizes sustainability and the well-being of both people and the planet. As his book continues to gain international acclaim, Saito took the time to sit down for a Q&A session to discuss his ideas and share his vision for a better future.
Q: What inspired you to write about degrowth?
A: I have always been fascinated by economics and its impact on our society. But as I delved deeper into the subject, I realized that traditional economic theories, which prioritize growth at all costs, were not sustainable in the long run. They were not only damaging the environment, but also widening the gap between the rich and the poor. This realization led me to explore alternative economic models, and degrowth was the one that resonated with me the most.
Q: For those who are unfamiliar, can you explain what degrowth means?
A: Degrowth is a concept that challenges the traditional idea of economic growth and instead focuses on achieving a sustainable and equitable society. It acknowledges that our planet has finite resources and that endless economic growth is not possible. Instead, degrowth proposes a steady-state economy where we prioritize well-being over material consumption. It also advocates for a more equal distribution of wealth and a shift towards sustainable production and consumption methods.
Q: Your book has been praised for its interdisciplinary approach. Can you tell us more about that?
A: Yes, I believe that in order to fully understand and address the complex issues of our time, we need to adopt an interdisciplinary approach. In my book, I draw from various disciplines such as economics, sociology, and ecology to present a holistic view of degrowth. This interdisciplinary perspective allows us to see the interconnectedness of different systems and how they impact each other. It also helps us to think outside of the traditional economic framework and consider alternative solutions.
Q: What do you hope readers will take away from your book?
A: My ultimate goal is to challenge the dominant ideology of infinite economic growth and to offer an alternative perspective on how we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. I hope that readers will be inspired to question the status quo and think critically about our current economic system. I also hope to spark conversations and discussions about degrowth and the potential for change.
Q: Some critics argue that degrowth is not feasible for developing countries, as they need economic growth to lift people out of poverty. What is your response to this?
A: I understand these concerns, but I believe that degrowth is actually beneficial for developing countries. The traditional model of economic growth has proven to be unsustainable and has only perpetuated poverty and inequality. Degrowth, on the other hand, offers a more equitable and sustainable approach to development. It also encourages a shift towards localized and community-based economies, which can benefit developing countries by promoting self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on global markets.
Q: What can individuals do to embrace degrowth in their daily lives?
A: There are many small changes that individuals can make to embrace degrowth in their daily lives. Simple actions like reducing consumption, supporting local and sustainable businesses, and living more frugally can all contribute towards a degrowth mindset. It’s also important to engage in discussions and activism to push for systemic changes towards a degrowth economy. Every individual has the power to make a difference, and it starts with making conscious choices and being mindful of our impact on the environment and society.
Q: What message do you have for those who are hesitant to embrace degrowth?
A: I understand that change can be scary and that it’s not easy to let go of the familiar. But the reality is, our current economic system is not sustainable, and it’s time for a paradigm shift. Degrowth offers a hopeful and practical solution for a better future. I encourage everyone to keep an open mind and explore the potential of degrowth. Together, we can create a more sustainable, equitable, and fulfilling world for generations to come.
In conclusion, Kohei Saito’s book “Degrowth: A New Economic Paradigm” is a thought-provoking and inspiring read for anyone interested in alternative economic models and creating a better
