Abstract:

Karl Polanyi introduced Great Transformation as shorthand term for encompassing change in the social sciences. The perspective of such a Great Transformation is analyzed on the premise that the currently dominating mode of production and consumption is not sustainable. The imminent Great Transformation is labeled socio-ecological transformation or sustainability transformation. At various levels, this transformation is currently already evolving. It is concluded that economics ought to include transformations in the core of its research programs. In particular, the study of the Great Transformation from fossil non-sustainability to a post-fossil sustainable development should be taken seriously. Normative issues of such a sustainability transformation are discussed related to the concept of planetary stewardship taken from the Anthropocene debate.