Resources, Resistances, and Economic Growth

Abstract

Erich W. Zimmermann′s functional interpretation of resources is expanded and elaborated into an instrumental theory of resources, resistances, and economic growth. Both resources, which are useful to man, and resistances, which interfere with the satisfaction of his wants, are defined by technology and redefined by every technological innovation. Therefore, technological innovation can create new resources and can transform resistances into resources by teaching man how to use environmental features which were previously useless. Technological progress becomes the basis of unlimited economic growth. This instrumental theory is used to suggest solutions to problems associated with resource depletion, environmental pollution, and economic growth.

Citation

Hill, L.E. (1990), "Resources, Resistances, and Economic Growth", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 17 No. 6, pp. 60-66. https://doi.org/10.1108/03068299010144751