Commons, capitalism and inoperative praxis: beyond the Green New Deal?

The theme of the commons has long been debated, taking in recent years an increasing sense of urgency, arguably not unrelated with economic stagnation, environmental threats and political insecurity. A number of meanings and perspectives has stratified, often blurring analytical and normative purposes. In a way or another, however, capitalism is a main critical target of the case for the commons. Critique takes different forms, according to the perspective adopted. In this work I address three, finding all of them wanting. This sobering outcome invites to explore other directions. In the last section I tentatively reflect on a perspective – “inoperative praxis”, or “inoperosity” – which to my knowledge has not yet been connected with the issue of the commons but I believe deserves a thorough elaboration. This also in the light of what can be considered the latest capitalist move, as expressed in the emergent narrative and policy framework of the “Green New Deal”.