To Grow or Sustain? That is the question.

So you may or may not recall that this blog came about as a personal reflection on my school’s ability to create socially responsible businesspeople. I had heard a professor at the University speak about how he did not feel he could help others the way he wanted to at VSB so he transferred to the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. Most days, I disagree with him.

BUT- after my first week of classes, I have a reflection to make related to his challenge. It’s not an argument on ethics, but a confrontation between my business and science classes about the desire for the economy of the United States to continue to grow.

Professor #1: International Comparative Management

A heavy current topic was brought up: China and India have the ability to  overshadow the United States in economic power and innovation. What are we going to do about it? What do we offer? How can we stay cutting edge and continue high growth? This whole conversation feels very US vs THEM, even though the professor, and the course, highlight international collaboration as vital to the economic sustainability of the world.

Professor #2: Biology for Business Majors

Our professor made a grand case for our country to live within the means of natural growth (which is around 3% a year) and to create re-usable energy and produce less waste. He reiterates the importance of making the world better for the people who come after us- that we are “fouling our own nest.” He tells how the United States is one of the least committed countries to this cause, as we represent 6% of the world’s population and consume 50% of all things made.

Now, I haven’t checked facts on either side of the argument, but the interesting part is more the emotional persuasion of each of the professors. Both believe each are correct, and won’t budge on their stance. They also both teach the same students at the same University, giving conflicting opinions. Personally, I am happy I attend a University which can give me different view points and allows me to choose for myself.

I want the US to have strength, confidence, and a unique value in the economic environment, but I don’t think this can be accomplished without collaboration with other countries. I know my VSB professor wasn’t suggesting that we cut ourselves off from other economies and connections, but I don’t think she values the innovations other countries have made that help us. I also would love to see Americans have a desire to become environmentally sustainable, but unless there is a substantial immediate problem or a drastic change in public opinion, economic growth will be a more important factor in the United States.

The ideal solution: The United States makes innovations in green energy and sustainability to become cutting edge in the global marketplace while collaborating with other countries.

I understand this is a heavy topic and my attitudes could change easily as the semester, and my years go on, but I would love to hear your opinion on this topic. Do you think growth is more important than sustainability? Are you concerned about India and China taking over as a world power?