Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/284326 
Year of Publication: 
2024
Citation: 
[Journal:] Degrowth Journal [ISSN:] ISSN 2977-1951 [Volume:] 2 [Article No.:] 00045 [Publisher:] School of Social & Political Sciences, University of Glasgow [Place:] Glasgow [Year:] 2024
Publisher: 
School of Social & Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow
Abstract: 
This article explores the relationship between degrowth and the theory of Capital as Power (CasP), aiming to understand how socio-ecological transformations can unfold against capitalist power dynamics. While degrowth scholars have largely overlooked this perspective on capital, CasP argues that capitalism is primarily a mode of power, with capitalisation quantifying power – the confidence in in – the ability to shape society against opposition. Key CasP concepts are brought into dialogue with degrowth research to identify potential implications and offer a step towards a theory of change for degrowth. The article first outlines the CasP perspective, including its notion of power, the process of capitalisation and the conflictual nature of capital accumulation, and highlights links with degrowth research. It then looks at the elements underlying the valuation of capital as power and how they provide entry points for degrowth transformations. The role of dominant capital groups and the concept of “sabotage” in exercising power over society are then addressed. As such, degrowth transformations must challenge the confidence of dominant capital groups in their ability to rule, as these groups inhibit possibilities for socio-ecological change. This dynamic, summarised in a conceptual diagram, provides a first step towards a theory of change for degrowth in the face of capital accumulation. Finally, the conclusion offers potential directions for further research.
Subjects: 
capitalism
accumulation
degrowth
ecology
power
sabotage
socio-economic transition
JEL: 
P
P1
P18
Q5
O4
Creative Commons License: 
cc-by-nc-nd Logo
Document Type: 
Article
Document Version: 
Published Version

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