Education for the New Economy

I have read the book, Agenda for a New Economy - from Phantom Wealth to New Wealth. I agree with much that is in the book.

But it seems that most of what is called for can be accomplished and demonstrated even with the current system. The book calls for a new economy based on strong local economies that are mostly self-sufficient.

So where are the models for these local communities. Demonstrate strong, local communities exhibiting the values enumerated in the book and people will have a more concrete understanding of what the future can look like. Show happy communities focused on "real wealth."

Spread the ideas espoused by the book one community at a time.

If there is already a link to a list of these communities, I would like to see it.

Glad you asked. The New Economy section of the YES! website will connect you with the extensive YES! data base of such examples and to still other sources. http://www.yesmagazine.org/new-economy/new-economy-home.

Also check out the website of the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE), which is an alliance of communities that are working toward this ideal even in the face of the obstacles posed by a system that favors the values and institutions of the Wall Street phantom wealth economy.

Perhaps the best overall demonstration of the possibilities is Sustainable Connections, the BALLE Network in Bellingham, Washington.
http://sustainableconnection.org

As spelled out in my various books and articles the issue is not that it is impossible to strengthen local economies within the existing system, indeed doing so is part of the change strategy, it is that the prevailing economic culture supported by media, most academic economists, and the existing policy framework favor predatory Wall Street corporate interests devoted to converting the real living wealth of such communities into phantom financial wealth to increase the power and fortunes of already wealthy financial speculators. To have a world of peace, justice, and sustainability, this must change.

Dr. Korten: Thank you for the pointers. Here are corrected links:

http://www.yesmagazine.org/new-economy/new-economy-home/
http://sustainableconnections.org/

There is a lot to digest in this network of information.

It would be great if there could be a section devoted to communities that are demonstrating the ideas espoused by the book. It could discuss the successes and problems of each community. It could use the metrics of "real wealth" to evaluate each community.

I will keep reading and learning.

If this is not too personal, can you tell me how you have incorporated the ideals of a New Economy into your own life style?

Best regards,
Jon