Author:
Philipsen, Dirk, 1959-
Imprint:Princeton : Princeton University Press, [2015]
Descriptionix, 398 pages ; 25 cm
Note:Introduction: We become what we measure -- More, better, faster : the beginnings -- The origins of bling : the spirit of economic growth -- The crucible of crisis : the Great Depression and the need for economic indicators -- Born from disaster : the making of a key measure -- Forged in war -- Global domination : the age of GDP -- Today's ABC of GDP -- More is not enough -- "The people of plenty are a people of waste" -- From alchemy to reason : what if? a thought experiment -- Looking forward.
Bibliography Note:Includes bibliographical references (pages 351-387) and index.
Note:"In one lifetime, GDP, or Gross Domestic Product, has ballooned from a narrow economic tool into a global article of faith. It is our universal yardstick of progress. As The Little Big Number demonstrates, this spells trouble. While economies and cultures measure their performance by it, GDP ignores central facts such as quality, costs, or purpose. It only measures output: more cars, more accidents; more lawyers, more trials; more extraction, more pollution--all count as success. Sustainability and quality of life are overlooked. Losses don't count. GDP promotes a form of stupid growth and ignores real development.How and why did we get to this point? Dirk Philipsen uncovers a submerged history dating back to the 1600s, climaxing with the Great Depression and World War II, when the first version of GDP arrived at the forefront of politics. Transcending ideologies and national differences, GDP was subsequently transformed from a narrow metric to the purpose of economic activity. Today, increasing GDP is the highest goal of politics. In accessible and compelling prose, Philipsen shows how it affects all of us. But the world can no longer afford GDP rule. A finite planet cannot sustain blind and indefinite expansion. If we consider future generations equal to our own, replacing the GDP regime is the ethical imperative of our times. More is not better. As Philipsen demonstrates, the history of GDP reveals unique opportunities to fashion smarter goals and measures. The Little Big Number explores a possible roadmap for a future that advances quality of life rather than indiscriminate growth. "-- Provided by publisher.
Note:Recommended in Resources for College Libraries
