Growth for the sake of growth

"Since Adam Smith, we have learned to assume that exponential growth is the basic law of economics and that no limits can be set to it. The result is that increased production has become an end in itself; products are designed to become rapidly obsolete so as to make room for more production; a minority is ceaselessly urged to multiply its wants in order to keep the process going while the majority lacks the basic necessities for existence; and the who ecosystem upon which human life depends is threatened with destruction. Growth is for the sake of growth and is not determined by any overarching social purpose. And that, of course, is an exact account of the phenomenon which, when it occurs in the human body, is called cancer." (Lesslie Newbigin Foolishness to the Greeks p115, emphasis mine)

In light of looming recession, Newbigin's words are extremely apropos. We have come to think that cancerous growth is normal, and even essential - even though we are aware that it is built on greed and exploitation of the poor and the environment. If we would embody the Good News of Christ, we must find ways to engage in sustainable, healthy economic growth.