Daniel Susskind: Why More Growth Won’t Make You Happier

Economic growth often functions as a default assumption, yet it requires a fundamental re-evaluation of purpose and direction. Rather than treating progress as a fixed, inevitable train, society should adopt a nautical approach, exercising discretion over the nature of growth and its moral consequences. True prosperity integrates material advancement with intentionality, acknowledging that mindless expansion often incurs hidden costs to health, the environment, and personal well-being. Because the future remains inherently unknowable, individuals should abandon the search for a singular "unique calling" in favor of solving specific, meaningful problems. Developing adaptable cognitive skills—such as critical thinking, literacy, and numeracy—provides the necessary flexibility to navigate a rapidly changing labor market. Ultimately, choosing growth with purpose allows for a more resilient and fulfilling life, prioritizing meaningful impact over the pursuit of status or unnecessary consumption.