Beyond Good Intentions: The Need to Rescue Ourselves from Global Salvationism
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Chapter 1: Understanding DIYE and Economic Misconceptions
In a previous chapter, Peter Foster references economist David Henderson, who introduced the concept of DIYE—do-it-yourself-economics. This notion encapsulates the erroneous subconscious beliefs many hold regarding the functioning of the economy. One prevalent misconception is the belief that the economy necessitates planning. This unease with the idea of a free market guided by an "Invisible Hand" often feeds anti-capitalist sentiments. Despite its intuitive appeal, the concept of central planning has been challenged by F. A. Hayek, who argued against its feasibility by highlighting the knowledge problem: no single planner can possess all the information required to effectively execute a plan. Knowledge is dispersed among individuals in the economy, and only the free market's price system can unveil it. The apparent guidance of the economy by an Invisible Hand arises from individuals responding to price signals.
Section 1.1: The Emergence of Global Salvationism
In this chapter, Foster references another significant insight from Henderson's 2004 book, The Role of Business in the Modern World. Almost two decades ago, Henderson identified the issues surrounding "global salvationism," which we are now witnessing firsthand. He described global salvationism as a quasi-religious belief underpinned by two core tenets: environmental alarmism and the assertion that poverty in the Third World stems from the West consuming more than its "fair share" of global resources. Foster addressed the environmental concerns in the previous chapter, while the belief that the West is responsible for Third World poverty reflects a lack of historical context. It's crucial to recognize that the existence of poverty does not require explanation; rather, it's the absence of poverty that warrants investigation. For most of human history, people have lived at subsistence levels, except for the last 200 years.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Pitfalls of Zero-Sum Thinking
This flawed reasoning reveals another cognitive error: zero-sum thinking, which Thomas Malthus critiqued in his 1798 essay. This line of thought suggests that wealth must be taken from one group to benefit another, ignoring capitalism's essential role in driving innovation and increasing resource output. This innovation is the true source of the improved standard of living we enjoy today.
Section 1.2: The Interplay of Environmental Fears and Economic Misconceptions
Continuing with Henderson's perspective on global salvationism, both environmental anxieties and concerns about the perceived exploitation of poorer nations by the wealthy West arise from the same flawed zero-sum mentality. When this error is compounded with the DIYE approach of central planning to address an issue that may not require intervention, the concept of global salvationism emerges. Foster argues that these challenges have been framed as requiring top-down political solutions, which have historically failed. This time, however, they incorporate the involvement of large corporations, which are expected to take on greater "social responsibility" for political aims.
Chapter 2: The Historical Context of Global Salvationism
The first video, THE SOVEREIGN SAVIOR | Reformed Motivation, featuring thinkers like Steve Lawson and Voddie Baucham, explores the moral and ethical dimensions of economic systems and the implications of salvationist thinking on society.
As Foster continues, he introduces Maurice Strong, a Canadian figure instrumental in promoting the idea of sustainable development through government and international organizations. Strong played a key role in pivotal meetings and institutions identified by Henderson, including the 1972 and 1992 UN conferences and the establishment of UNEP and WEF. He serves as a psychological archetype linking high moral aspirations, flawed critiques of capitalism, and the desire for power.
The second video, Who You Say I Am (Lyric Video) - Hillsong Worship, reflects the themes of identity and purpose that resonate with the discussions surrounding global salvationism.
While Strong has undoubtedly achieved much through his business acumen and his advocacy for sustainability, he is also a figure often associated with conspiracy theories. However, it's more insightful to examine his views without falling into speculation. In one interview, he distanced himself from communism while acknowledging a socialist ideology, stating, "I believe the principal purpose of economic activity is to meet the social goals of society." This perspective aligns with his DIYE errors.
Conclusion: The Dangers of Centralized Power
In his autobiography, Where on Earth Are We Going?, Strong imagines a future where Earth functions as a shareholder organization, hinting at a radical form of stakeholder capitalism. He suggests that the extinction of two-thirds of the population might be a "glimmer of hope" for humanity's regeneration—a clear indication of Malthusian thinking. Most troubling is his assertion that seeking proof for his claims is irresponsible; he emphasizes the urgency for immediate action, devoid of rational discourse. This highlights a significant concern: the inability to engage in productive discussions about these issues can lead to the concentration of power in the hands of a few, who may impose their vision of a better future without considering the consequences for individual freedoms.
Foster's analysis reveals the perils of zero-sum thinking, which assumes that the needs of the future can only be met by restricting present-day needs. In reality, capitalist wealth is not derived from the future; it serves as the foundation for ongoing improvement. The remaining content will delve into the flawed reasoning behind Corporate Social Responsibility, which will be explored in the next blog.
Reference: Foster, Peter, 2014. "Global Salvationism" Chapter 15 of Why We Bite the Invisible Hand, Pleasaunce Press.