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Can the economy grow forever?

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TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Many economists think that an eternally growing economy is necessary to keep improving people’s lives, and that if the global economy stops growing, people would fight more over the fixed amount of value that exists, rather than working to generate new value. Which raises the question: is infinite growth possible on a finite planet? Explore how economies can balance efficiency with sustainability.

Exponential growth – or periodic doubling – of the global economy has been occurring for the past:

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Director Kevin Herrmann, AIM Creative Studios
  • Script Writer George Zaidan
  • Narrator George Zaidan
  • Storyboard Artist Kevin Herrmann
  • Animator Kevin Herrmann, Jorge Ramos, André Cunha

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