A comparative review of de- and post-growth modeling studies

Abstract

In recent years, a small but rapidly growing field of modeling alternatives to growth as represented by the de- (DG) and post-growth (PG) discourses has emerged. We compare selected model characteristics of 75 DG and PG related modeling studies, compiled through a systematic literature review (2000−2023), and link model structures and results to different theoretically contested debates surrounding DG/PG. The reviewed studies cover different geographical and temporal scopes, economic theories, modeling techniques and operationalizations of DG/PG. The majority of studies models DG/PG as intentional transition and does not question its compatibility with a capitalist system, while more radical strands of the DG/PG discourse are excluded. Although DG/PG modeling exercises frequently explore the effects of sustainability policies, they represent only a fraction of theoretical DG policy proposals, with the most frequent being: working time reduction, maximum income caps, carbon taxes and a universal basic income. DG/PG modeling studies have demonstrated the importance of integrating biophysical constraints in economic modeling but also have quantitatively assessed the feasibility of environmental integrity and social well-being without growth. Nonetheless, future modeling could be rendered more realistic by paying more attention to the Global South, introducing heterogeneous agents driving sustainability transitions and including multiple planetary boundaries.