The aim of development must be neither producerism not consumerism, but the satisfaction of fundamental human needs, which are not only needs of humanity...
Interpretation
Development should focus on fulfilling human needs rather than just production or consumption.
In this quote, Manfred Max Neef emphasizes that true development goes beyond the conventional notions of producerism (focusing on production) and consumerism (focusing on consumption). Instead, he advocates for an approach that prioritizes the satisfaction of fundamental human needs, suggesting that the essence of progress lies in ensuring that the basic needs of humanity are met, highlighting a more holistic view of development that aligns with human well-being.
In practice
During a conference on sustainable development, this quote can help frame a discussion about prioritizing people over profit.
In every man and in every animal, however weak or wicked, great or small, resides the same omnipresent, omniscient soul. The difference is not in the soul, but in the manifestation. Between me and the smallest animal, the difference is only in manifestation, but as a principle he is the same as I am, he is my brother, he has the same soul as I have. This is the greatest principle that India has preached.
My days among the dead are passed; Around me I behold, Where'er these casual eyes are cast, The mighty minds of old; My never-failing friends are they, With whom I converse day by day.
In mathematical quarters, the regular division of the plane has been considered theoretically. ... [Mathematicians] have opened the gate leading to an extensive domain, but they have not entered this domain themselves. By their very nature they are more interested in the way in which the gate is opened than in the garden lying behind it.
The believers in miracles accept them (rightly or wrongly) because they have evidence for them. The disbelievers in miracles deny them (rightly or wrongly) because they have a doctrine against them.
The Lord doesn't care at all if we spend our days working in marble halls or stable stalls. He knows where we are, no matter how humble our circumstances. He will use - in his own way and for his holy purposes - those who incline their hearts to Him.
He was an embittered atheist, the sort of atheist who does not so much disbelieve in God as personally dislike Him.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.