Some Civil Society Groups and Activists Propose a Zero-Economic-Growth Policy

question 93

Essay

Some civil society groups and activists propose a zero-economic-growth policy in order to preserve the environment. Write an essay to discuss the pros and cons of this proposal. You may wish to refer, among other ideas, to the following:
∙ Economic growth needs to compensate for the increase in population.
∙ If population becomes older, the number of active persons decreases; therefore, productivity must increase to sustain a high standard of living.
∙ An increase in standard of living is only possible if an economy becomes more productive. (Income per person is closely related to labour productivity.)
∙ It is hoped that economic growth will eventually eradicate poverty.
∙ Economic measures of well-being, such as GDP per capita, are imperfect mainly because they disregard external costs of economic activity, as well as other aspects of life that people value, such as leisure, fairness, and income equality.

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Definitions:

Change

The process through which something becomes different, often leading to new ways of thinking, behaving, or operating.

Enlightenment

A philosophical movement of the 18th century emphasizing individualism, reason, and skepticism towards traditional doctrines.

Natural Laws

A body of unchanging moral principles regarded as a basis for all human conduct.

Human Good

Pertains to what is considered beneficial, desirable, or valuable from a moral or welfare perspective, leading to the well-being and flourishing of individuals and communities.