PODCAST:Past Present Future
TITLE:Something’s Got to Give
DATE:2023-12-07 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4
The "Past Present Future" podcast episode titled "Something’s Got to Give," hosted by David Runciman, featured a discussion with economists Dieter Helm and Diane Coyle. They explored the concept of sustainability, particularly in the context of economic measurement and policy. Here are the key points:
Sustainability and Economic Measurement: Helm and Coyle discussed the limitations of current economic measures like GDP in accounting for sustainability. They emphasized the need for a broader perspective that includes the maintenance of natural capital and societal assets.
Consumption and Keynesian Legacy: Helm critiqued the Keynesian focus on consumption as a measure of economic well-being, arguing that it overlooks essential aspects like environmental sustainability and long-term investments.
Economics and Human Nature: Helm argued that solutions to sustainability should be based on human nature as it is, rather than idealized notions. He emphasized the importance of focusing on local communities and national contexts, rather than relying solely on international cooperation.
Political Challenges and Time Horizons: The conversation highlighted the challenges politicians face in balancing short-term democratic pressures with long-term sustainability goals. Helm and Coyle suggested that focusing on local and national levels might be more pragmatic and effective than waiting for international consensus.
Digital Technology's Impact: The episode also touched on the role of digital technology in both fragmenting and potentially aiding community building. It was discussed how technology could be used for better data collection and understanding of economic trends.
Coalitions of the Willing and Carbon Pricing: Helm advocated for building coalitions of willing countries to address global issues like climate change, emphasizing the importance of carbon consumption measures and carbon pricing.
Infrastructure and Community Building: Coyle mentioned the significance of local communities and infrastructure in addressing sustainability. She also pointed out the need to link immediate benefits with longer-term environmental goals.
Looking Forward: Both guests expressed a need for a more comprehensive approach to measuring and achieving economic well-being, one that considers sustainability and the well-being of future generations.
The episode concluded with a mention of Helm's book, "Legacy: How to Build the Sustainable Economy," and its free availability for download. The podcast also touched on future topics and listener questions for upcoming episodes.
