Economic system Quote by Derrick Jensen
““Make no mistake, our economic system can do no other than destroy everything it encounters. That’s what happens when you convert living beings to cash. That conversion, from living trees to lumber, schools of cod to fish sticks, and onward to numbers on a ledger, is the central process of our economic system. Psychologically, it is the central process of our enculturation; we are most handsomely rewarded in direct relation to the manner in which we can help increase the Gross National Product.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Endgame: The Blueprint for Global Survival, Derrick Jensen, 2006
The quote argues that capitalism treats all living things as commodities, turning them into monetary value, which drives environmental destruction and shapes cultural values.
In simple terms: Capitalism turns life into money, causing harm.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge commodification of nature.
Themes
environment
economics
ethics
culture
systems
destruction
Mood
critical
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
activist
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- corporate decision making
- personal consumption choices
- activism
- education
Key Concepts
commodity fetishism
anthropocentrism
ecological economics
social conditioning
Questions to Reflect On
- How does commodification affect your daily choices?
- Can alternative economic models sustain both people and nature?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook benefits of market mechanisms for innovation and poverty reduction.
