Human Progress and Its Socioeconomic Effects in Society

Journal of Economic and Social Thought - 2018, vol. 5, n. 2, pp. 160-178

35 Pages Posted: 8 Aug 2018

See all articles by Mario Coccia

Mario Coccia

National Research Council of Italy (CNR)

Matteo Bellitto

National Research Council (CNR)

Date Written: July 24, 2018

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to suggest a definition of human progress given by: an inexhaustible process driven by an ideal of maximum wellbeing of purposeful people which, on attainment of any of its objectives for increasing wellbeing, then seek another consequential objective. The human progress improves the fundamental life-interests of people represented by health, wealth, expansion of knowledge, technology and freedom directed to increase wellbeing throughout the society. These factors support the acquisition by humanity of better and more complex forms of life. However, this study also shows the inconsistency of the equation economic growth= progress because human progress also generates negative effects for human being, environment and society, such as increasing incidence of cancer in advanced countries.

Keywords: Human Progress, Economic Growth, Wellbeing, Social Progress, Environmental Degradation, Cancer

JEL Classification: B50; B59; I00; I10; I30; O10; O30, O33, O40

Suggested Citation

Coccia, Mario and Bellitto, Matteo, Human Progress and Its Socioeconomic Effects in Society (July 24, 2018). Journal of Economic and Social Thought - 2018, vol. 5, n. 2, pp. 160-178, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3219147

Mario Coccia (Contact Author)

National Research Council of Italy (CNR) ( email )

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Matteo Bellitto

National Research Council (CNR) ( email )

Via San Martino della battaglia, 44
Roma, 00185
Italy

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