Wolfgang Jacoby - Denkwerk Zukunft

Can we give a brighter outlook?
Will qualitative growth be possible without growth of energy expenditure?
- Yes, but it requires reduction of energy consumption, hence
→ changes in the economic system, e.g. taxation on the basis of energy
consumption 1) , emphasize far-sighted investments.
→ a reasonably modest material standard of living, not necessarily a loss of
individual happiness and comfort,
→ large potentials for moderation exist in view of the present wasteful living,
→ growth philosophy must be moderated, otherwise demand for energy
will rise despite temporary breaks 2) ,
→ philosphy of material modesty and a dynamic equilibrium economy are
goals that can save mankind beyond the ultimate energy crisis,
→ The trinity of thermodynamics, world population and material standard of
living must be brought into harmony with a fair human society
1) Grahl, J & Kümmel, R.: Das Loch im Fass. Energiesklaven, Arbeitsplätze und die Milderung des Wachstumszwangs.
Wissenschaft & Umwelt Interdisziplinär, Wien, 195-212, 2009
2) GMIT, 40, Juni 2010, 18-19: „Energieverbrauch weiter gesunken“ (Jahresbericht 2009 der Arbeitsgemeinschaft Energiebilanzen)
und „Weltbank ruft Energienotstand aus“ (Studie „Gehen die Lichter aus?“, Financial Times Deutschland, 6. Apr. 2010)