Infinite Desire for Growth

The Infinite Desire for Growth explores the unrealistic expectations of economic growth and the global tensions that have arisen as a result of the obsession with wanting more. Daniel Cohen provides a history of economic growth and examines how a future less dependent on material gain can be achieved.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 184 pages
\n Publication date: 08 December 2020
\n Publisher: Princeton University Press
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Economic growth, the cornerstone of modern society, has become increasingly bleak, marked by crashes following booms in an endless cycle. In the United States, a staggering 80 percent of the population has witnessed a decline in purchasing power over the past three decades, and the situation is scarcely better elsewhere. The Infinite Desire for Growth delves into the insatiable desire for more, highlighting the global tensions that have arisen as a result. Daniel Cohen, in his comprehensive exploration of economic growth's history, from the dawn of civilization to the present day, underscores the unsettling aspects of our current predicament. He examines the possibility of a future less reliant on material gain and explores how individual desires can be better aligned with the greater needs of society, amidst a culture of fierce competition.

The pursuit of economic growth has become an all-consuming obsession, driving societies to constantly strive for more. However, this relentless pursuit has led to a series of unintended consequences, including environmental degradation, social inequality, and economic instability. The Infinite Desire for Growth explores the root causes of this obsession and proposes alternative approaches to economic development that prioritize sustainability, social justice, and human well-being.

One of the key challenges facing societies is the need to transition from a growth-oriented economy to a more sustainable one. This requires a shift in focus from short-term gains to long-term sustainability, which requires a reduction in resource consumption, a move towards renewable energy sources, and a rethinking of economic models that prioritize profit over environmental and social considerations.

Another important aspect of the book is its exploration of the role of individual desires in shaping economic growth. Cohen argues that the pursuit of material wealth and consumerism has become a driving force behind economic growth, but that this approach is ultimately harmful to both individuals and society as a whole. He suggests that individuals should be encouraged to prioritize their own well-being and the well-being of their communities, rather than simply pursuing economic gains.

Cohen also offers a vision of a future less dependent on material gain, where individuals and communities can thrive in a more sustainable and equitable society. He advocates for a shift in cultural values towards greater compassion, empathy, and social responsibility, which can help to create a more harmonious and sustainable world.

The Infinite Desire for Growth is a thought-provoking and timely book that challenges the prevailing economic paradigms and offers a path towards a more sustainable and equitable future. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of economic growth and the urgent need for a change in direction.

\n Weight: 186g\n
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780691210063\n \n