Epochal Crisis

The Exhaustion of Global Capitalism

William I. Robinson (University of California, Santa Barbara)

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English

Cambridge University Press
04 September 2025

Sociology; Political economy; Economic systems & structures

In a groundbreaking new study, acclaimed scholar of global capitalism William I. Robinson presents a bold, original, and timely 'big picture' analysis of the unprecedented global crisis. Robinson synthesizes the different economic, social, political, military, and ecological dimensions of the crisis, applying his theory of global capitalism to elucidate these multidimensional and interconnected aspects. Addressing urgent issues such as economic stagnation, runaway financial speculation, unprecedented social inequalities, political conflict, expanding wars, and the threat to the biosphere, he illustrates how these different dimensions relate to one another and stem from the underlying contradictions of a global system spiralling out of control. This is a significant theoretical contribution to the study of globalization and capitalist crisis, in which Robinson concludes that the conditions for global capitalist renewal are becoming exhausted.

By: William I. Robinson (University of California Santa Barbara)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 229mm, Width: 152mm, Spine: 12mm
Weight: 345g
ISBN: 9781009670494
ISBN 10: 1009670492
Pages: 234
Publication Date: 04 September 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Acknowledgements; Introduction: towards a theory of global capitalist exhaustion; 1. Structural crisis: overaccumulation; 2. Crisis of social reproduction; 3. Legitimacy crisis, geopolitical conflict, and global police state; 4. Collapse of the biosphere; 5. Into the vortex; Select bibliography.

William I. Robinson is Distinguished Professor of Sociology and Global and International Studies at the University of California at Santa Barbara. He is the acclaimed author of numerous award-winning books, including Global Capitalism and the Crisis of Humanity (Cambridge, 2014), and is a frequent speaker on a wide range of current topics, among them global politics and economics, capitalist crises, and resistance movements. His theory of global capitalism has been hailed as a theoretical milestone in understanding the dynamics of the contemporary global order.

Reviews for Epochal Crisis: The Exhaustion of Global Capitalism

'A bright and shining light onto capitalism's epochal crisis. With exemplary clarity, a keen empirical eye, and razor-sharp theory, Robinson has given us a must-read book for everyone trying to make sense of our turbulent times.' Jason W. Moore, author of Capitalism in the Web of Life 'Buckle up to join William I. Robinson's wild ride into the perfect storm of global capitalism. This masterful assessment demonstrates why Robinson is the most brilliant critic of our crisis-ridden socioeconomic system. Not to be missed!' Manfred B. Steger, Professor and Chair of Sociology, University of Hawai'i-Manoa 'William I. Robinson has yet again delivered a powerful analysis of the demise of the capitalist social system. He convincingly shows that capitalism in the 21st century now threatens the very survival of humanity, nature and the planet. Only class struggle against capital can steer us towards a future of socialism rather than extinction.' Michael Roberts 'Epochal Crisis is an intellectual and political tour de force-a must-read for anyone seeking to fully understand global capitalism.' Susanne Soederberg, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Just and Inclusive Cities, Queen's University, Canada