After relaying some crucial history, Monbiot presents his idea for a new "restoration story". He may be on to something important here. One thing's for certain: presently re macroeconomics, the Powers-That-Be are engaged with pretty much same-ol', same-ol' stuff, or SSDD. Given the worldwide socio-eco-econ-ethical Crisis upon us, that will never do.
We are in dire need of a new politics, and a new restoration story to promote it. That doesn't mean we necessarily have to throw out capitalism; however, it does mean we must recognize that capitalism has become so distorted as to be unrecognizable. Adam Smith certainly wouldn't recognize it, especially with all the mega businesses, the essentially monopolistic enterprises, the shrinking Middle Class, the gross inequality, the excessive damaging and/or utter destruction of ecosystems, the crony relations with government, and the perpetual wars waged in order to access or control natural resources. That's not capitalism; it's plutocratic fascism pretending to be economics.
In addition to Monbiot's view, another possibility for a new narrative is found in Ecological Economics. The two aren't that far apart. Eco-Econ has been around about 30 years, but very few on Main Street seem to know anything about it. The main reason for that is the past and present dominance of neoliberal economists in high places, both public and private. Neoliberal economics has failed, but still rules the world. Why? Many reasons, but I suspect the primary ones are as follows.
1. Money buys influence and power.
2. Plain old propaganda continues.
3. Main street people are distracted to a point beyond the pale.
4. Every so often, those in high places throw a bone to the rest of us.
It's an old, old story.
The good news is that things are beginning to change all around the world. People are waking up, which means the plutocrats are doubling down. Be aware.
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Not only my opinion. Be Well
