What’s the economy for anyway?

My reading this week is What’s the economy for anyway? a book by John De Graaf and David K. Batker.  Their book has the sub-title Why It’s Time to Stop Chasing Growth and Start Pursuing Happiness.

A premise of the authors is that we need new goals for our economy in line with what is for the “greatest good, for the greatest number, over the longest run.”

The big shift in my life-time is society becoming part of the economy.  I work every day in part to see the return of the economy to being part of society.  

I am for the “greatest good, for the greatest number, over the longest run.”  Where do you stand?

I stand against anything that’s good for a few and disadvantages many.  I am against short-termism and unsustainable practices that are jeopardising the future for my grandchildren.

As for happiness.

I am with Rabbi Hyman Judah Schachtel who in an excellent book The Real Enjoyment of Living said:

“Happiness is not having what you want, but wanting what you have.”

Happiness is wanting what you have.

I meet a lot of people who are always focused on getting and having more.

I meet a few people grateful for what they have. These folk realise

Wanting what you have = gratitude
Having what you want = gratification

Less gratification, more gratitude is a key to the sustainable future of our world.

Be the difference you want to see in the world

Ian