Skip to content

At present we are stealing the future, selling it in the…

“At present we are stealing the future, selling it in the present, and calling it gross domestic product.” quote by Paul Hawken
Download Open image
“At present we are stealing the future, selling it in the present, and calling it gross domestic product.”

Paul Hawken

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

We sacrifice long‑term wellbeing for short‑term profit, labeling it economic success.

In simple terms: We sell the future now and call it growth.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize sustainable, future‑focused policies.

Themes

economics environment ethics future

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • business planning
  • government budgeting
  • investment decisions
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

sustainability growth paradox policy critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we measure true progress?
  • What incentives can shift focus to long‑term health?
A Different Perspective

Changing systems is slow and faces entrenched interests.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Paul Hawken

Explore all 121 Paul Hawken quotes

More Calling quotes

Browse all 3,811 Calling quotes