# Is Greed the Foundation of Thriving Societies?
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Chapter 1: The Greed Argument
Milton Friedman once posited that greed is the engine that powers society. His rationale is persuasive: our endless desire for more propels us to innovate and create products that satisfy consumer demands. As a staunch advocate for free-market principles and minimal regulation, he viewed greed as essential for a vibrant society. If everyone were satisfied with their current possessions, we would risk stagnation. In this stark dichotomy, it appears we must choose between greed and stagnation. While I acknowledge Friedman’s significant impact on economics, I must express my philosophical disagreement. I believe societies are driven by desire, which is fundamentally different from greed.
Section 1.1: Greed as a Destructive Force
In my view, greed represents the ultimate downfall. If we were to visualize it within a dualistic framework, it would be akin to a destructive deity. By definition, greed entails an insatiable desire for material wealth or possessions. The critical aspect here is "excess." We can provide valuable services and earn income from them if they meet the needs of sufficient individuals. The motivation behind this endeavor is ideally to contribute positively or, at the very least, to sustain ourselves. However, when greed infiltrates our intentions, we inevitably seek to extract more from the same situation, often at the expense of quality, by charging higher prices for diminished value.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Power of Kindness
Section 1.2: Kindness Over Greed
Contrary to the notion that greed is a catalyst for advancement, I believe that kindness and altruism are far more effective motivators. In the face of pressing global challenges, such as climate change and food shortages, it is the desire to do good that inspires countless individuals to devise innovative solutions. While it's true that greed may incentivize investments in such initiatives—such as a groundbreaking technology that could convert air into flour, which might help avert famine—the true drive behind these efforts often stems from a commitment to bettering the world, rather than pure profit.
Chapter 2: A Questionable Justification
The assertion that greed is indispensable strikes me as a feeble attempt to rationalize questionable behavior. One consistent truth is our tendency to concoct explanations for our actions. When we attain wealth, many feel justified not only in possessing it but also in believing that it benefits society as a whole.
Excessive desire can become problematic when it relies on the scarcity experienced by others. In contrast, the pursuit of improvement is devoid of greed and is a noble endeavor.
"I sit on a man's back choking him and making him carry me, and yet assure myself and others that I am sorry for him and wish to lighten his load by all means possible… except by getting off his back."
— Leo Tolstoy
Today's level of pessimistic optimism: 60%.
Written while enjoying: 'Big Room' by Ulla Straus.
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This video, "Ajahn Nissarano - 'Greed Is Good' ~ Is That Really True?" delves into the complexities surrounding the role of greed in our lives and society, sparking an essential dialogue about its implications.