Global warming pollution, indeed all pollution, is now…
“Global warming pollution, indeed all pollution, is now described by economists as an "externality." This absurd label means, in essence: we don't to keep track of this stuff so let's pretend it doesn't exist.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Economists label pollution as an externality, implying it’s ignored rather than managed, which hides its true cost.
In simple terms: Pollution is called an externality to avoid dealing with it.
Address hidden costs of pollution.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government regulation
- corporate responsibility
- public awareness
- environmental activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we internalize environmental costs?
- What policies can reveal hidden pollution impacts?
Ignoring externalities leads to worsening problems.