Buddhist Economics

I just read the Steiguer article on Shumacher's "Small is Beautiful" that mentions "Buddhist Economics." Personally, and as all of you probably already know, economics confuses the heck out of me. I'll stick to my tree ID and latin names. But the way these Buddhist economics were explained... I think I actaully understood! I see that they are a sort of Utopian view that is probably next to impossible to achieve, but I think we as a nation as well as the entire world would be much better off if we adopted these economic priciples.

• Work must allow humans to develop their faculties
• Work must enable people to overcome their ego-centeredness by having them work with others towards a common goal
• Work must bring forth the goods and services needed for human existance

These seem like pretty common sense things, but they are often overrun by greedy companies and consumers seeking a life of material possesions. Not that I am innocent... there are some material possesions I love that have... but there are also others I will give up for the sake of the environment.

I like that the Buddhist Economics speaks of treating the earth and environment better, even in the attainment of business goals, since we all have to keep on living here! It seems such a simple concept...crazy how it hasn't caught on. People are more concered with what they are gaining right now, especially those companies causing major environmental damage while producing and selling their products.

I say, YAY Buddhist Economics! Let's be good to the Earth, even when pursing economic goals, so we all can have a place to live while pursuing those goals....