Meadowlark Economics: Sustainability, the Economy and the Environment
Is it possible for the economy and the environment to survive and thrive in harmony?
“Yes,” says Professor James Eggert in his new book, “Greenspan’s Anguish (Thoreau as Economic Prophet and Other Essays).”
“Ecology and economics have the same prefix, eco-, from the Greek oikos, which literally means ‘household.’ The original definition of economics therefore implied a careful stewardship of household resources, whereas ecology compels us to try to understand and appreciate the interrelationships within nature’s ‘household.’
I believe these two households are becoming more interdependent and their futures more and more intimately linked. When we fail to calculate ecological values or see the connections, we pave the way for losses that are unintended and unwanted,” Professor Eggert writes in his essay, “Meadowlark Economics.”
“Greenspan’s Anguish” contains 19 essays that explore the relationship between the economy and the environment, sustainability and our relationship to the universe.
In addition to “Meadowlark Economics,” which examines the value of the meadowlark, both as a symbol for what has gone wrong with our economy and as a symbol of what is essential to our existence, the book includes “Thoreau as Economic Prophet,” “Darwin’s Finches and Ford’s Mustangs,” “Then the Sun Came Up,” “Craftsmanship and Salvation,” and “The Coming Repair Age.”
“The author is an economist – but not one devoted to the prevailing theology of his profession. Economists mostly work with the dedication of beavers toward the great goal of More… now comes James Eggert, one of a small school of economists who has begun to think outside of the box… there are delightful discussions of meadowlarks, of the nature of capitalism, of ‘economist’ Henry David Thoreau, of craftsmanship and high jumping, of topsoil and the art of repair and many other things that constitute a joyful and complete life.” (From the Foreword by Bill McKibben).
“The author is a fine teacher of economics whose vision transcends his chosen discipline. This book will touch even those readers far removed from the dismal science.” (Alfred L. Malabre Jr. – former economics editor of “The Wall Street Journal”).
James Eggert is a writer and emeritus faculty member of the University of Wisconsin – Stout where he taught undergraduate students for 33 years. He also is the author of “What is Economics (fourth edition),” “Invitation to Economics,” “Low-Cost Earth Shelters,” “The Wonder of the Tao,” and “Meadowlark Economics.”
“Greenspan’s Anguish” (copyright 2013; Green Dragon Books) is available through most local bookstores or at online booksellers, including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books-A-Million, Powell’s Books, Green Dragon Books.
Meadowlark Economics: Sustainability, the Economy and the Environment
Meadowlark Economics is a concept that emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the economy and the environment. It advocates for an economic model that recognizes the interdependence between the economy, society, and the environment. In this article, we will explore the principles of Meadowlark Economics and its potential impact on sustainability.
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Sustainable Development
Sustainable development is the core principle of Meadowlark Economics. It involves balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social well-being. The goal of sustainable development is to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This means promoting the efficient use of natural resources, reducing waste and pollution, and promoting social equity.
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Circular Economy
Meadowlark Economics also emphasizes the importance of a circular economy. This means moving away from a linear model of production and consumption, where resources are used once and then discarded, towards a model where resources are reused and recycled. The circular economy reduces waste and promotes resource efficiency, leading to a more sustainable economy.
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Environmental Stewardship
Environmental stewardship is another key principle of Meadowlark Economics. This means taking responsibility for the impact of economic activity on the environment and working to minimize that impact. It involves promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, reducing pollution, and protecting biodiversity. Environmental stewardship also involves promoting awareness and education about the importance of the environment.
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Social Equity
Social equity is an important aspect of Meadowlark Economics. This means promoting fairness and justice in the distribution of resources and opportunities. It involves ensuring that everyone has access to basic needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education. Social equity also involves promoting inclusive economic growth, where everyone has the opportunity to benefit from economic development.
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Collaboration and Partnerships
Meadowlark Economics emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships between different sectors of society, including government, business, civil society, and communities. Collaboration and partnerships can promote innovation, shared responsibility, and collective action towards sustainable development.
In conclusion, Meadowlark Economics is a concept that emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the economy and the environment. Its principles include sustainable development, circular economy, environmental stewardship, social equity, and collaboration and partnerships. By adopting these principles, we can create a more sustainable and equitable world for future generations.