Using causal layered analysis, this paper explores the underlying stories of the global financial crisis (GFC). The six narratives presented are the GFC as a mortgage crisis, a global banking crisis, creative destruction as part of natural cycles, a geopolitical shift, a symptom of the inequity of capitalism and a window of opportunity to a different, greener world. The essay concludes with five scenarii of the future of the world system—business as usual, the rise of “Chindia”, the quick and long road to sustainability, the end game of capitalism and a new era.
