Marx Talks Logo
Lily Campbell

Climate destruction and crisis: understanding capitalism and the profit motive

Marxism 2024

The relentless drive for profit which is a defining characteristic of capitalism is condemning the world to catastrophic environmental disaster. The competition, free markets and pursuit of profit that capitalism’s apologists tell us deliver optimal outcomes are threatening to destroy the planet on which the system depends. Those with the power to act won’t. This discussion looks at why capitalism does this, why it can’t stop and why we need a new system if we want environmental security.