The world economy today is at an historical inflection point. The neoclassical (industrial) model of economics is self-destructing while a new life-mimicking model, based on radically different assumptions, is emerging. Although rarely acknowledged, Nordic countries, which pioneered the life-mimicking model, have become world leaders in prosperity and productivity while others operating on the neoclassical model are trapped in downward spirals. By approaching economies as sub-systems of life rather than super-systems that are above life, we gain transformative insights. Such thinking led to the first circular economy experiments in Kalundborg (Denmark) during the 1970s, then quickly spread to the rest of the Nordic world. By placing a higher value on living assets (people and Nature) than on non-living capital assets, this approach generates harmony rather than divisiveness. Because Nordic people feel vested in the system and responsible for its success, they are extraordinarily innovative and productive. That is why each year Nordic companies are rated among the world’s most sustainable and profitable in their fields. Written in an accessible way for non-economists, the book is ideal for those interested in the benefits of biomimicry and can be used to guide democratic countries along a proven path of self-renewal. Economies That Mimic Life will also provide useful background for corporate leaders in strategic thinking and scenario planning. Knowing which way the political-economic wind is blowing will become increasingly important to corporate survival.