Breaking Together: A freedom-loving response to collapse

What it's about

Jem Bendell argues that societal collapse is already underway due to the failures of our industrial and financial systems. He challenges readers to move past denial and climate optimism to build resilient, freedom-loving communities that prioritize kindness and wisdom as the structures we rely on begin to fail.

Key ideas

• The reality of collapse: Industrial civilization is reaching its limits, and we must accept that current economic and social systems cannot be sustained.
• Moving beyond optimism: Blindly hoping for a green tech fix prevents us from preparing for the inevitable disruptions to our daily lives.
• Freedom in adversity: True liberation comes from detaching our well-being from failing institutions and creating local networks based on mutual aid.
• Psychological courage: Facing the abyss requires mental fortitude, allowing us to find purpose in helping others through difficult transitions rather than succumbing to despair.

You'll love this book if...

• You feel skeptical of mainstream narratives about sustainable growth and technological salvation.
• You want a practical, philosophical guide to maintaining your humanity and community bonds during systemic decline.
• You prefer honest, direct confrontation with global challenges over hopeful climate activism.

Best for

Individuals who feel alienated by modern consumer culture and want to prepare for a future that looks significantly different from the status quo.

Books with the same vibe

• The Great Derangement by Amitav Ghosh
• Dark Mountain by Paul Kingsnorth
• The Transition Handbook by Rob Hopkins