Progress or Collapse: The Crises of Market Greed

Global warming and the depletion of natural resources are widely recognized as the major threats to the future of industrial society and the survival of human species. However, this environmental destruction is paired with an often-overlooked deterioration of psychosocial wellbeing. In spite of the rapid material success of the last two centuries, mental disorders have become one of the leading causes of death and disability in industrial societies. Depression, anxiety, stress and distrust are increasing. This original and compelling book explores the links between ecological collapse and psychosocial decay. It argues that the power and profit driven nature of contemporary notions of progress cause five damaging behaviours which in turn contribute to both types of breakdown: excessive consumerism mass conformity pervasive inequalities civic disengagement eco-estrangement. Having identified and analyzed the major problems of the current model of human development, this book discusses the implications for action and societal change, concluding that we must redefine progress " and overcome the inertia of our model of development by tailoring society around a new organizing principle. It will be of interest to researchers and students of ecology, psychology, public health, epidemiology, human development, political philosophy, economics, sociology and politics.