DISCUSSION: Has Capitalism Become an Ideology That Resists Any Alternative

Discussion: Has Capitalism Become an Ideology That Resists Any Alternative — Even at the Planet’s Expense?
Capitalism is often presented not just as an economic system, but as the only viable way to organise society. But what happens when a system designed for endless growth collides with a finite planet? Has capitalism evolved into an ideology that defends itself at all costs, even ecological collapse?
Suggested article to spark reflection:
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/oct/30/capitalism-is-killing-the-planet-its-time-to-stop-buying-into-our-own-destruction
✅ Free entrance (just grab a drink at the bar to support the venue!)
From climate change and biodiversity loss to resource depletion and social inequality, environmental crises are increasingly framed as technical problems to be solved within the existing system. Yet critics argue that capitalism’s core logic (perpetual growth, profit maximization, and commodification of nature) makes meaningful ecological solutions impossible.
In this discussion, we’ll explore whether capitalism has become an ideology that actively resists alternatives, how this shapes our political imagination, and what it means for the future of life on Earth.
Some guiding questions:
💬 How has capitalism come to be seen as “inevitable” or without alternatives?
💬 Can a system built on endless growth be compatible with ecological limits?
💬 How do corporate power, consumer culture, and political interests block systemic change?
💬 Are “green capitalism” and technological fixes genuine solutions or forms of delay?
💬 What would real economic alternatives look like and why are they so hard to imagine?
Join us for an open and thoughtful conversation where all perspectives are welcome.
📅 Tuesday, 20 January
🕖 19:30 – 21:30
📍 Hostel Pulcinella, Bogaardeplein 1 - 2000 Antwerpen
👉 RSVP to let us know you’re coming!