TED: Will the end of economic growth come by design — or disaster? | Gaya Herrington

The video discusses the persistent global issues of poverty and pollution despite technological advances. It critiques the current economic system's focus on growth, highlighting the historical shift towards GDP as a measure of progress. The 'Limits to Growth' study is revisited, showing alignment with current trends and suggesting a shift from growth to well-being. The concept of 'enough' is introduced, advocating for a well-being economy that prioritizes human and ecological health. The video concludes with feasible pathways for transformation and individual actions to contribute to systemic change.

What is identified as the primary goal of the current economic system?

• Sustainability

• Growth

• Equality

• Innovation

What historical shift is discussed in relation to economic growth?

• The rise of renewable energy

• The introduction of GDP as a measure of progress

• The decline of fossil fuel use

• The increase in global well-being

What does 'The Limits to Growth' warn about?

• The end of technological innovation

• The potential for societal breakdown due to unchecked growth

• The inevitability of poverty

• The decline of renewable resources

What is suggested as a way to avoid societal breakdown?

• Focusing on economic growth

• Redirecting resources to meet human needs and protect nature

• Increasing fossil fuel use

• Expanding industrial production

What challenge is highlighted in decoupling economic growth from environmental impact?

• Excessive government intervention

• Overabundance of natural resources

• Insufficient absolute decoupling in data

• Lack of technological innovation

What is the main focus of a well-being economy?

• Expanding global trade

• Increasing industrial output

• Human and ecological well-being

• Maximizing GDP

How should richer countries approach economic growth according to the well-being economy concept?

• Expand industrial production

• Reduce ecological footprints while safeguarding livelihoods

• Increase fossil fuel consumption

• Focus on increasing GDP

What is a key strategy for individuals to contribute to systemic change?

• Working in isolation

• Focusing solely on personal gain

• Ignoring environmental issues

• Finding unique influence and working together

What narrative should individuals work from to promote systemic change?

• The story of separation

• The story of isolation

• The story of interdependence

• The story of competition

What is the expected outcome of achieving a well-being economy?

• Less stuff but more connection and purpose

• Higher levels of consumerism

• Increased material wealth

• Greater economic inequality