Economic Growth: Unleashing the Potential of Human Flourishing

by Edd S. Noell

For almost 10,000 years of recorded history, most people had to eke out a living in pain and difficulty. But today, the deep poverty that was the global norm for most of human history is almost entirely foreign to citizens of the developed world. What caused this burst of prosperity? What has been its impact? In Economic Unleashing the Potential of Human Flourishing, Edd S. Noell, Stephen L. S. Smith, and Bruce G. Webb make a comprehensive case for economic growth, equipping readers with an understanding of not only its pragmatic benefits but also its moral dimensions. The authors offer empirical evidence from the past two centuries showing the relationship between growth and human well-being, greater global income equality, and environmental improvements and sustainability. They make the case that economic growth is key to lifting societies from dire poverty to prosperity and holds the promise of sustaining unreached levels of human flourishing.

Genres: Economics, Nonfiction

141 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 3, 2013

Reviews

[Cooper]

Hits a high level overview of economic growth and the effects it has on human flourishing. Some of the arguments are presented quickly and do not thoroughly address the counter arguments but that is the nature of a small book. Great resource to be introduced to economic growth and the benefits for society.

[Sergey]

Provides a US-centric view of the global economy. Very little explanation is given as to why certain conclusions are drawn, which might be a shortcoming of the chosen book format. While I may share the Christian values, I honestly do not think an economics book is a suitable place to thrust them upon a reader.

[Addie]

The perfect handbook for economics novices, students, laymen, or anyone looking to review the basics (and read a case for the moral value of) economic growth. It fits in any purse or pocket, and provides exactly what it purports to: answering questions about historical and continued economic prosperity or lack thereof.

[Nathan Smith]

Balanced Approach

This book was co-authored by two of my college professors (Smith and Webb). I enjoyed the analysis and Christian perspective a great deal. A quick read that helps explain the moral dilemma associated with choices in economic growth.