Activity Quote by John B. Cobb
“... placing economic activity in the context of the whole earth requires attention to the question of scale. Bigger is obviously not better, so the optimum scale of human economy in relation to the total economy becomes basically a question of sustainability. When the effects of the economy on the environment undercut the possibility of its own continuance, the scale is too large.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Scale of the Economy” (publication), 1990
Economic activity must align with planetary limits; larger scale isn’t inherently better, sustainability is key.
In simple terms: Economy must fit Earth’s capacity.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize sustainable scale.
Themes
sustainability
economics
environment
Mood
concerned
analytical
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- business strategy
- resource management
- urban planning
Key Concepts
ecology
systems thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What indicators show an economy is too large?
- How can growth be redefined?
A Different Perspective
Scaling up can strain resources and social equity.
