Solutions: Economy

Nature always has ceilings and floors. Everything has limits, consequences and responsibilities. Our economies must follow these fundamental natural guidelines if we wish to live with sustainability.

There is a difference between wealth and prosperity.
Great wealth applies only to individuals and families and always requires that many others live in poverty. Some people need to feel that they are better than others and more important and they often do that by accumulating more money. A society based on competition with very little cooperation is not going to do well for most of the inhabitants. Just a few members will benefit.

In contrast, Prosperity can apply to an entire community. A society based on cooperation with a sprinkling of competition can do well for everyone! We need to face facts and commit to the sustainable life or accept the destructive consequences. A safe, happy, healthy family does not charge members for breakfast or allow some members to drop out onto the street from disabilities or illness of any kind. Some people are natural leaders and organizers. Others are artists, poets, musicians. Everyone appreciates pretty things. Many people appreciate beautiful concepts. Scientists don't have time or inclination to concentrate on marketing and investing, but without those people who seek and share knowledge, we would all still be fighting off hyenas, leopards, tigers and wolves like the other primates.

Smaller, more autonomous communities and transparent economics will help. Kibbutz style communities will be helpful to many! All these concepts are in the works. The computer industry has spawned the concept of Open Source software. This is carrying over into patent and copyright law. There are many efforts to create transparent economies.

The image of Florida at the top right suggests a set of solutions for local self-sufficient level of production of energy, water and improved farming.

"We make the rules of the economy -
and we have the power to change those rules."
Robert Reich

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead

"The world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed"
Gandhi