Until the 19th century, the term 'to consume' was used…
“Until the 19th century, the term 'to consume' was used mainly in its negative connotations of 'destruction' and 'waste'. Tuberculosis was known as 'consumption', that is, a wasting disease. Then economists came up with a bizarre theory, which has become widely accepted, according to which the basis of a sound economy is a continual increase in the consumption (that is, waste) of goods”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Economic growth is framed as perpetual consumption, which historically meant waste and destruction.
In simple terms: Growth is tied to wasteful consumption.
Key Takeaway
Seek sustainable, circular economic models.
Themes
economics
consumption
environment
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- product design
- policy reform
- consumer education
Key Concepts
sustainability
resource use
historical lingu
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we shift from wasteful to regenerative consumption?
- What incentives promote circular economies?
A Different Perspective
Consumption can be redefined, but profit motives resist change.