Tuesday, March 07, 2006

True Cost Manifesto

We've talked a lot about the flaws of neo-classic economic thought in our current situation, as well as some improvements and limitations that come along with Environmental Economics, and finally a more holistic view in the form of Ecological Economics. Which is great, but we're still left with the obvious question about how to change an ingrained and historically successful economic system, even one so dangerous to our future.

Essentially, this change will occur as more and more individuals and economists shift their way of thinking and their worldview - a process which is accelerating, but still very small. Education is the key, but like most things relating to sustainable development, this poses a huge challenge, as it requires a transdiciplinary approach - and our institutions of higher education (like most sectors of society) are deeply entrenched in a reductionist, compartmentalized system.

So that’s a big long term challenge that we all need to become more aware of, and if we happen to be economics professors or university administrators, start working aggressively on fixing. In the meantime, here’s a pretty cool site where the rest of us can take some small action by signing the “True Cost Economics Manifesto” and learn some more about Ecological Economics – check it out: http://adbusters.org/metas/eco/truecosteconomics/manifesto/

Hope you’re all doing well, things are still great here in K-town – staying light until almost 6pm these days, which is a treat - feels like the end of winter is in sight. Be well, and stay going…

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