Quality of life not consumption should be government focus

The government should focus on quality of life and sustainability, not economic growth and consumption, says a new report published today by the Fabian Society.

The report – 'A Better Choice of Choice' – has been written for the government’s advisory body the Sustainable Development Commission, chaired by Jonathon Porritt. Citing evidence that rising GDP is now associated with declining wellbeing, it argues that economic policy should no longer aim at increasing economic growth as measured by GDP, but should use more direct measures of quality of life and environmental sustainability.

Expanding the range of choices available for private consumption can often deprive individuals of other choices which may make them better off, the report by the Labour-affiliated think tank argues. Public goods often provide greater quality of life benefits, as well as being more environmentally sustainable, the report says.

Private consumption "is not a guarantor of liberty", as individuals are not free to choose public goods which require regulation or public provision – such as clean air, uncongested streets, sustainable agricultural systems, safer communities, or good schools.

Roger Levett, the report’s principal author, said: "The taboo on political discussion of consumption needs to be broken. Improving the quality of people’s lives does not automatically mean increasing their consumption.

"Consumer choice sounds like you could not be against it. But actually many market choices on offer are relatively trivial, while vital alternative choices which could improve the quality of life are not available at all."

(gmcg)