Economic Quote by David Attenborough
“Anyone who thinks that you can have infinite growth on a planet with finite resources is either a madman or an economist.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Environmental conference, 2019
Infinite growth on a finite planet is unrealistic; believing otherwise is either delusional or economically naive.
In simple terms: Unlimited growth impossible on limited Earth.
Key Takeaway
Recognize planetary limits.
Themes
sustainability
economics
environment
ethics
Mood
concerned
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- business planning
- policy making
- personal consumption
- investment decisions
Key Concepts
resource scarcity
carrying capacity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance growth with sustainability?
- What alternatives exist to endless consumption?
A Different Perspective
Economic models sometimes overlook technological breakthroughs.
![“We only know a tiny proportion about the complexity of the natural world. Wherever you look, there are still things we don’t know about and don’t understand. [...] There are always new things to find out if you go looking for them.” quote by David Attenborough](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b04/david-attenborough-2396_complexity_we-only-know-a-tiny-proportion-about-the_112007.jpg)
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
