Transcript of Episode 53 of the podcast “Revolution Now” with Peter Joseph. The episode discusses the need to transition out of a capitalist system and build a post-scarcity, collaborative economy. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Introduction
Peter Joseph introduces the new phase of the podcast, which will include visuals, interviews, media analysis, and discussions of current events. He emphasizes the urgency of systemic change and argues that solutions like technology or policy within capitalism are inadequate.
Critique of Capitalism
Joseph critiques the competitive nature of market capitalism, which drives ecological destruction, inequality, and systemic dysfunction. He argues that markets are the problem, not the solution, and that the system is designed to produce winners and losers.
False Solutions
Joseph discusses false solutions to the problems caused by capitalism, including:
Technology: He argues that technology will not save us from the problems caused by capitalism, as it is often used to perpetuate exploitation and inequality.
Policy: He argues that policy attempts to address social and environmental problems are limited by the fact that they operate within the existing capitalist system.
Institutional Change: He argues that institutional change, such as the rise of cryptocurrency, is not a solution to the problems caused by capitalism, as it is still based on the same principles of competition and exploitation.
Individual Ethical Actions: He argues that individual ethical actions, such as “voting with your dollar” or buying sustainable products, are not enough to bring about systemic change, as they are still operating within the existing capitalist system.
Collaborative Economy
Joseph argues that a collaborative economy is necessary to address the problems caused by capitalism. He discusses the following key points:
Efficiency: A collaborative economy can achieve technical efficiency, which means maintaining homeostasis with the environment and ensuring that goods are strategically designed for longevity and adaptability.
Self-Regulation: A collaborative economy can achieve self-regulation through decentralized cooperative networks and participatory democracy.
Spontaneous Order: A collaborative economy can achieve spontaneous order through the emergence of a complex adaptive system, where individual actions guided by personal and societal interest build out an adaptive system as a whole.
Root Construct
Joseph introduces the concept of the “root construct,” which consists of three institutional elements:
Collaborative Value Exchange: Mechanisms for equitable and non-monetary value exchange, such as time banks and cooperatives.
Shared Resource Stewardship: Decentralized stewardship of resources, which can lead to common ownership of the means of production.
Participatory Economic Governance: A democratic approach to governance, where decision-making is integrated and self-regulating, involving participant input at various scales.
Conclusion
Joseph concludes the episode by emphasizing the need for a collaborative economy and encouraging listeners to support his work through Patreon or direct donations. He also announces that he will be developing simulations to demonstrate the process of building a collaborative economy.