The Economic Growth Engine: How Energy and Work Drive Material Prosperity

The Economic Growth Engine: How Energy and Work Drive Material Prosperity

Authors:   Ayres RU, Warr B

Publication Year:   2009

Reference:  Edward Elgar, Cheltenham, UK

[ISBN 9781848441828]

Abstract

The authors of this unique book explore the fundamental relationship between thermodynamics (physical work) and economics. They take a realistic approach to explaining the relationship between technological progress, thermodynamic efficiency and economic growth, the findings of which conclude with a fundamental explanation of endogenous growth that is both quantifiable and consistent with the laws of thermodynamics. A major implication of this is that future economic growth is not guaranteed inasmuch as efficiency gains that have driven past growth may not continue in the future.

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