Campus area in the city centre

A future without growth

The »great transformation« of our society
Campus area in the city centre
Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)

We cannot carry on as we are: We are running out of time to tackle climate change; raw materials and fossil fuels are dwindling; and the older population in industrialized countries is growing. While in the past every crisis could be overcome by opening up new markets and resources and introducing new products and structures, the concept of perpetual growth has finally reached its limits. But what now? What will the world be like without growth? How will our living environment change with industry sectors falling by the wayside, skilled labour lacking, and young people moving away from entire regions?
Sociologists from the University of Jena, alongside experts from other disciplines, are thoroughly addressing these questions and taking an analytical and critical look at our future.critical look at our future.

Dr Karina Becker has been the scientific director of the »Post-Growth Societies« research group.
Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)
Society at a turning point
Are we prepared for the »great transformation«?
Prof. Dr Klaus Dörre is a sociologist who researches and teaches on the change in working society.
Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)
Capitalism has reached its limits
Growth has become obsolete as an economic criterion
Former lignite-opencast mine Cottbus-Nord, in the background the power plant Jänschwalde.
Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)
Post-coal conflicts
A »deep drilling operation« in the lignite district of Lusatia
Prof. Dr Uwe Cantner no longer considers the state in the role of a "repair shop".
Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)
The state needs to play a more active role!
The economy needs stronger, proactive government guidance.
The sociologists Prof. Dr Silke van Dyk (r.) and Dr Tine Haubner do research on volunteer work.
Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)
(In)voluntary pillars of the welfare state
Volunteering—an area with dark sides
This rural idyll is missing a touch of life.
Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)
The demographic trap
Why is the AfD so popular in eastern Germany?
Prof. Dr Norbert Frei teaches modern and contemporary history at the University of Jena.
Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)
Testing ground for the »Riders to the East«
Interview with historian Norbert Frei
Forest cover of the Hainich National Park near Kammerforst. Heavily damaged tree tops in grey.
Image: Sören Hese
Beeches in need
Climate change on our doorstep. An inventory from the Hainich.