Critique of growth and degrowth ideology: from developed to underdeveloped countries

Abstract

In this paper, I discuss the paradigmatic relationship between developed and underdeveloped nations within the notions of growth/degrowth. Economic Growth assimilated in the form of GDP expresses value bundle. Growth is demystified when the essence of value is grasped. Value ceases to be merely an abstract economic category and is apprehended as a social relation. Growth acquires a double reality under current social relations: Surplus value in a particular and a general form. To attain the dialectics of such relation and its supranational relationship, we endeavour a historical analysis giving an account of real relations to find the limits of our critique. Surplus labour historically has enabled societies to reach progress; only when societies produce beyond subsistence can they regard for different needs. On the other hand, the appropriation of surplus labour appears in history in many antagonist forms. In this perspective, the discussion about growth/degrowth attains major importance.