After Capitalism

After Capitalism presents an economic model called "Economic Democracy" as an alternative to both capitalism and state socialism. The book outlines specific mechanisms for workplace democracy, social control of investment, and market-regulated competition between enterprises. Schweickart grounds his proposed system in both philosophical arguments and real-world examples from existing cooperative enterprises and policy experiments. He addresses practical questions about implementation and responds to potential criticisms of his model. The work examines the current crises of capitalism - including inequality, environmental degradation, and economic instability - and explains how Economic Democracy could help resolve these issues. Through historical analysis and economic theory, Schweickart builds a case for why systemic change is necessary. At its core, After Capitalism is an exploration of how democratic principles might extend beyond politics into economic life. The text bridges political philosophy and concrete policy proposals to envision a more equitable economic future.

Readers appreciate Schweickart's clear explanation of market socialism and practical steps for transitioning from capitalism. Many note his systematic breakdown of economic concepts makes complex ideas accessible to non-economists. Positive reviews highlight: - Concrete examples and data supporting arguments - Balanced critique of both capitalism and central planning - Focus on democratic workplace ownership - Clear writing style without academic jargon Common criticisms: - Not enough detail on implementation challenges - Oversimplified solutions to complex problems - Limited discussion of potential drawbacks - Some find proposals unrealistic Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (156 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (28 ratings) Sample reader comment: "Presents a coherent alternative economic model without getting lost in theoretical abstractions" - Goodreads reviewer Critical comment: "Makes good points about capitalism's flaws but handwaves away difficulties in his proposed system" - Amazon reviewer

Democracy at Work: A Cure for Capitalism by Richard D. Wolff This book presents a model for worker cooperatives and democratic workplaces as an alternative to traditional capitalist structures.

The Next Revolution: Popular Assemblies and the Promise of Direct Democracy by Murray Bookchin The text outlines a framework for social ecology and direct democratic systems to replace current economic hierarchies.

Alternatives to Capitalism: Proposals for a Democratic Economy by Robin Hahnel and Erik Olin Wright The authors examine various post-capitalist models through theoretical analysis and practical implementation strategies.

The Making of a Democratic Economy by Marjorie Kelly and Ted Howard The book presents case studies and frameworks for transforming economic systems through community wealth building and democratic ownership.

Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist by Kate Raworth This work proposes a new economic model that balances social needs with environmental limitations.

🔸 David Schweickart, a mathematics Ph.D. turned philosopher, brings a unique analytical perspective to economic theory by combining mathematical precision with philosophical ethics. 🔸 The economic model proposed in "After Capitalism" - called Economic Democracy - has been partially implemented in various forms, most notably in the Mondragon Cooperative Corporation in Spain. 🔸 The book draws inspiration from successful worker-owned enterprises across the globe, including examples from Yugoslavia's market socialist period and contemporary Venezuela's communal councils. 🔸 The first edition was published shortly before the 2008 financial crisis, leading Schweickart to significantly revise the second edition to address how his proposed system might have prevented the economic collapse. 🔸 Despite advocating for a post-capitalist system, Schweickart's model retains markets for goods and services, arguing that markets themselves aren't the problem - private control of capital is.