Market as God

Last night in discussion with members of the communications committee of the Smarter Niagara Committee about “Growth” as a cultural given in our society. Someone asked “Do we have to grow?” - almost afraid to ask because it sounds like a dumb question. It was a great question and in some ways the most important question.

Generally understood, growth has meant being able to consume more than before. We know, intuitively, there are limits. But the economy is built on the assumption of no limits. I was reminded of an article found in Atlantic Monthly some years ago, “The Market as God”. Harvey Cox – a Baptist theologian, discussed a parallel of the language of Market Capitalism with religious language. In reality it is not simply parallel. Market Capitalism is a religion and it wants its converts – all of us – to fulfill the mission of growing consumption without thought of limitations. Cox writes:

“There is, however, one contradiction between the religion of The Market and the traditional religions that seems to be insurmountable. All of the traditional religions teach that human beings are finite creatures and that there are limits to any earthly enterprise.

A Japanese Zen master once said to his disciples as he was dying, "I have learned only one thing in life: how much is enough." He would find no niche in the chapel of The Market, for whom the First Commandment is "There is never enough." Like the proverbial shark that stops moving, The Market that stops expanding dies. That could happen. If it does, then Nietzsche will have been right after all. He will just have had the wrong God in mind.”

This god needs to die. Our children will be required to take the last resources, the last bit of clean air and water, live with global warming, to sacrifice all in obedience. Something to think about that when you buy your next home: How much is enough? Which god do you serve?