Since human needs are finite, but human greed is not, economic growth can usually be maintained through artificial creation of needs by means of advertising. The goods that are produced and sold in this way are often unneeded, and thus are essentially waste. The pollution and depletion of natural resources generated by this enormous waste of unnecessary goods is exacerbated by the waste of energy and materials in inefficient production processes. Indeed, as we discuss in Chapter 17, the
The statement highlights the contrast between human needs and desires, suggesting that while basic needs are limited, the desire for more is limitless. This discrepancy leads to sustained economic growth driven by advertising, which creates and promotes unnecessary goods. Such goods often contribute to waste rather than fulfilling real needs, indicating a fundamental inefficiency in the economic system.
This cycle of producing unneeded items causes significant environmental issues, including pollution and resource depletion. The production processes waste energy and materials, compounding these challenges. The insights from Fritjof Capra's "The Systems View of Life" emphasize the interconnectedness of these issues, underscoring the need for a more sustainable approach to economic growth.
