Sustainable Revolution? Diffusion

The final criteria for a social revolution is diffusion. Diffusion is a continuation of critical mass that is able to go beyond the socioeconomic boundaries within which a catalyst for change was initiated. For example, after the success of industrialization in Europe, electricity, gasoline engines and factory production improvements were widely adopted by other nations. Even today many developing countries continue to chase the ideals put forward by the industrial revolution. In contrast, the sustainability revolution has failed to become a “pervasive mainstream phenomena”. Much of this can be attributed to the notion that this movement has not achieved genesis and critical mass, certain precursors to the final act of diffusion. Further, while there is resistance to such an idea within developed nations clinging to their way of life, there may be greater resistance by developing countries (i.e. China, India) attempting to have what Western society has attained. This form of negative feedback can stifle the momentum of any movement seeking broader appeal.

The genesis, critical mass and diffusion associated with the sustainability movement have not initiated the fundamental change and behavior characterized by revolutions. At best they are a backlash to some of the environmental, social and economic costs being experienced as a result of continuing industrialization. These costs include reduced quality of life, environmental degradation and commodity scarcity. Despite numerous examples of such costs, society has yet to be overwhelmed to a degree that would require a catalyst for significant change. The concept of a tragedy of the commons will continue to reinforce the self-serving interests of individuals. And the predominant market-economy will ensure that society continues to be ill-equipped to critically understand the need for change.

The fundamentals of the industrial revolution are just starting to be put into question. The measures discussed by Edwards all seek to repair a system that society ultimately wants to perpetuate rather than replace. Current attempts to change industrialization do not qualify as revolutionary, and perhaps not even as momentous. Rather they are measures of routine maintenance and re-balancing on a system that continues to be too compelling for society to seek change.

An Interesting article and interesting stuff to think about …..