Average Quote by David R. Brower
“I believe that the average guy in the street will give up a great deal, if he really understands the cost of not giving it up. In fact, we may find that, while we're drastically cutting our energy consumption, we're actually raising our standard of living.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Environmental Advocacy, 1970s
Understanding the hidden costs of not sacrificing can reveal that reducing consumption may actually improve living standards, challenging assumptions about scarcity.
In simple terms: Giving up can raise living standards.
Key Takeaway
Consider trade‑offs in conservation.
Themes
environment
economics
behavioral change
Mood
thoughtful
optimistic
Type
educational
motivational
When to use this quote
- energy policy
- personal budgeting
- business strategy
- public health
Key Concepts
sustainability
cost‑benefit analysis
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden benefits might arise from cutting consumption?
- How can you communicate these benefits effectively?
A Different Perspective
People may resist change due to perceived loss of comfort.
![“...President [Bush] believes that [high-energy consumption] is an American way of life, and that it should be the goal of policymakers to protect the American way of life. The American way of life is a blessed one.” quote by Ari Fleischer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/73e/ari-fleischer-11724_american-way-of-life_president-bush-believes-that-high-energy_1299493.jpg)
