ABSTRACT
This introductory chapter aims to set out the analytical framework of the argument that will be developed in the remainder of the book. By “post-growth”, we mean a horizon beyond the pursuit of economic growth as the collective goal of society. The “growth objective” has, in our opinion, become obsolete both for ecological and social reasons. Giving up on this goal raises major challenges for economists (researchers as well as practitioners) and requires them to re-explore the fundamentals of both the issues they commonly deal with and the aims they pursue. Three crucial principles may serve as guideposts for a post-growth society: respect of ecological boundaries, fair redistribution and promotion of autonomy. Such principles have already inspired a great number of transition initiatives and various schools of thought. Working towards their articulation by defining a theoretical framework and appropriate governance is a crucial step in the endeavour to trigger a systemic shift.
