I ♥ Growth

In light of the recent economic downturn, some have questioned the assumptions that underlie our economic system.  I've seen some blame the expectation of economic growth as the culprit, and longingly ponder a post-growth future.  But it occurred to me that economic growth stimulates not only risky speculation and the unsustainable of natural resources, but also increased efficiency.  In the quest for stockholder benefits, managers and engineers have ruthlessly squeezed incredible efficiencies out of limited resources, and I'm not sure how this could be motivated in a post-growth economy.