ABSTRACT
The world is finally recognizing that our planet is finite and that unbridled growth, as projected by some economists in the 20th century, is a myth. We are currently faced with threats to our existence, which are becoming more and more real every day, and we are approaching points of no return in several areas. This chapter is a brief overview of historical facts and the thinking that brought us to this turning point. It discusses development alternatives crafted more recently and new paradigms to help us in a much-needed and urgent course correction. This new thinking, updated dynamics, and innovative patterns of production and consumption may create the necessary conditions to regenerate the planet and allow humans to continue enjoying the riches it has to offer.
