That depends on whether accumulation can be endogenous, or needs an
expansion into space.
Hypothesis of endogenous accumulation is a consequence of surplus value as
being extracted from the work of each producer. It implies a
self-regenerating capitalism. In other words, it is the perpetuum mobile.
And then, if you don't hit it...
On the other hand, if accumulation needs expansion, it periodically meets a
limit, until the last one: the planetary limit ("globalization"). But this
does not make it any the less necessary to "hit it", for if we wait and see,
"it" will take the whole civilization to its grave.> "If you don't hit it, it won't fall." Mao. > > I rather suspect that capitalism can be depended on periodically to tear > itself apart -- but it can also be depended on to put itself back > together unless there is a political force that can overthrow it in at > least a few nations substantial enough to defend themselves. Unless we > really do think that History (with the uppercase H) is some sort of > divinity, we can't guarantee the appearance of such a force. We can work > for it and see what happens. > > (Of course it can also destroy the environment irreparably. I don't see > any guarantee against that either.) > > Carrol >
