The Fallacy of Unlimited Growth

An increasing number of environmentalists and economists make the argument that unlimited economic growth is impossible on a finite planet. More importantly, there are clear links between rampant growth and worsening human health and well-being (through toxic pollution and extreme weather events).

In the following interview, Andrew Simms, author of  Cancel the Apocalypse, makes an extremely articulate case for transitioning to a steady state economy. The main argument for a growth-based economy is to lift poor people out of poverty. However, as Simms points out, exponential economic growth only worsens income inequality.

I find it intriguing that David Cameron called for limits to growth while in opposition. Since being elected Britain’s prime minister, he has totally reversed himself.

photo credit: Leader Nancy Pelosi via photopin cc