Week 5: flourishing within limits, Jackson, Pre-reading

Question 1

According to the chapter, what does prosperity primarily depend on beyond material wealth?

Answer 1

the ability to flourish
- physically
- psychologically
- and socially, and to participate meaningfully in the life of society.

Question 2

What are the two types of structural changes needed to address the social logic of consumerism, according to the chapter?

Answer 2

1) Correcting perverse incentives for unsustainable status competition.
2) Establishing structures that enable people to flourish in less materialistic ways.

Question 3

What does the chapter suggest about the relationship between public goods investment and societal well-being?

Answer 3

Investing in public goods enhances community participation, reduces anxiety, and supports a more sustainable economy.

Question 4

What is the critical issue with government messages about consumerism, as discussed in the chapter?

Answer 4

promoting consumption while urging sustainability
–> this sends mixed message sand
undermines efforts to encourage sustainable behaviors.

Question 5

What are some key indicators of the ‘social recession’ identified in the chapter, and how do scholars Rutherford and Norman explain its causes?

Answer 5

Key indicators include
- rising rates of anxiety,
- depression,
- alcoholism,
- binge drinking
- declining morale at work
- breakdown of community
- loss of trust
- and political apathy

Rutherford attributes it to commoditization and social inequality, while Norman blames the overreach of ‘big’ government.

Question 6

What is Kate Soper’s concept of “alternative hedonism,” and how does it contrast with traditional consumerism?

Answer 6

• seeking satisfaction outside conventional market consumption, a desire for simpler, more fulfilling forms of human interaction (that promote well-being and sustainability.)