Published
Jul 12, 2022Page count
286 pagesISBN
978-1529220612Dimensions
216 x 138 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Jul 12, 2022Page count
286 pagesISBN
978-1529220629Dimensions
216 x 138 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Jul 12, 2022Page count
286 pagesISBN
978-1529220629Dimensions
216 x 138 mmImprint
Bristol University Press
Escaping Dystopia
In the media
On our blog: Can the permacrisis be resolved?
On our blog: We need radical transformation to escape dystopia
On our blog: PODCAST: Radical solutions for a broken system
Multiple crises have led many to conclude that the current economic and political system is broken. The present and future look increasingly precarious – if not outright dystopian
Stephen McBride calls for radical solutions to these crises to provide a more rational and sustainable future. He critiques other potential responses which would further curtail democracy and increase the inequalities associated with neoliberal globalism. Demonstrating how mainstream ideas, powerful interests and political institutions face major challenges but block progressive alternatives, he argues that for radical transformation to succeed, institutional changes are necessary.
“Needs to be read and debated by anyone interested in how to move beyond neoliberal dystopia.” Broadbent Institute
"For anyone seeking to rethink political economy for the 2020s, including the rules governing global capitalism, Escaping Dystopia provides a valuable roadmap."' Simon Lee, University of Hull
“Clearly identifies the challenges facing us, and what we can do about them. It should be required reading for everyone who wants to advance change.” Randall Germain, Carleton University
“This must-read book provides a masterful overview of multiple overlapping crises – economic, environmental, health, migration, conflict and security, inequality – which are relevant as stand-alone systemic issues requiring targeted responses, but also, crucially, as connected crises requiring radical systems change. It details a route to overcoming our dystopian future by forging alternatives that redesign liberal democratic institutions on the foundations of popular sovereignty, in order to privilege social and collective power over the public sphere.” Johnna Montgomerie, King’s College London
"Stephen McBride compellingly argues that a radical new deal for ordinary people is necessary but also possible. More public domain and genuine democracy is indeed our only bulwark against dystopia." Tom McDonnell, Nevin Economic Research Institute
"Offers a trenchant critique of global capitalism and its neoliberal institutions. A must-read for anyone wanting to escape current dystopian conditions.” Susanne Soederberg, Professor of Global Political Economy, Queen’s University Canada
Stephen McBride is Professor and Canada Research Chair in Public Policy and Globalization at McMaster University. His research deals with issues of comparative public policy, globalization and political economy.
1. Introduction
2. Trapped in Dystopia?
3. The Three Ds: Disaffection, Disarray, Democracy
4. Breaking the Mould through Anti-system Politics?
5. What Is to Be Done? Alternative Strategies
6. Restoring the Pre-crisis Neoliberal ‘Normal’
7. Saving the System by Building Back Better? Liberal Reform
8. Radical Transformation
9. Obstacles to Progress
10. How Is It to Be Done? Democratic Process and Building the Public Domain
11. Escaping Dystopia
