This bachelor thesis with the title Sustainable Prosperity Through Qualitative Growth – An Economic Analysis Using The Example Of China is analyzes the theoretical framework of economic growth and how it leads to sustainable prosperity. It propounds the notion of prosperity and sustainable development and thus explains the social, ecological and subsequently political dimension of economic growth.
The found insights are applied to the real-life example of the Chinese economic development of the past three decades to draw conclusions and explain why prosperity can be sustainable and which way leads to this goal.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction and leading question
2. The notion of economic growth and prosperity
2.1 Economic growth in terms of quantity and quality
2.2 Measuring economic growth
2.3 Political and social dimension of economic growth
2.4 Innovation
2.5 How to measure innovation
2.6 Prosperity and sustainable development
3. Striving for economic growth
3.1 Potential dynamics and structure dynamics
3.2 Qualitative Growth
4. China’s economic rise – potentials and threats
4.1 Return of a world power
4.2 Threats to China’s prosperity
4.3 China’s potential for sustainable prosperity
4.4 Interpretation and outlook
5. Conclusion
Objectives and Research Themes
This thesis examines the theoretical framework of economic growth and its trajectory toward sustainable prosperity. The central research question explores how qualitative growth can be achieved in the context of China's rapid development, assessing whether prosperity can be sustained amidst environmental and social challenges.
- The theoretical distinction between quantitative and qualitative economic growth.
- The social and political dimensions of prosperity beyond mere material wealth.
- Mechanisms of innovation and their role in long-term economic development.
- The impact of China’s rapid modernization on its social stability and natural environment.
- Strategies for China to transition toward a sustainable, innovation-based economy.
Excerpt from the Book
2.3 Political and social dimension of economic growth
When we discuss growth, we talk about very abstract processes that involve institutions, regulations and frameworks; formulas describe their act in combination and outcomes. What the theory usually neglects is that these processes affect people’s life and their living conditions.
Economic growth usually leads to prosperity, which can better living conditions for a vast number of people - in the best case for the entire population. But to strive for growth we need people contributing their workforce, their skills and capital. We need natural resources, which are scarce and thus rivaling. Prof. Oppenländer sifts out six arguments for and against economic growth: Growth is wealth-multiplying, conflict-reducing, aim-fulfilling, environmentally harmful, dehumanizing, equality-retarding. These arguments prove that growth is by far more than an economic phenomenon. It is also a social and political phenomenon and thus a political task. Politicians dedicating to economic growth do not only take over responsibility for a company’s profit, but also for that companies employees, the natural resources used , so for the external effects to environment and society.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction and leading question: This chapter introduces the historical context of economic growth since the Industrial Revolution and outlines the research objective regarding qualitative versus quantitative growth.
2. The notion of economic growth and prosperity: This section defines the fundamental economic terms, explores metrics for growth and innovation, and addresses the broader social and political dimensions of development.
3. Striving for economic growth: This chapter analyzes the mechanics of economic growth through the lenses of potential dynamics, structural change, and qualitative improvements.
4. China’s economic rise – potentials and threats: This section applies theoretical insights to China, examining the impact of its reforms, the risks posed by its current economic structure, and its potential for sustainability.
5. Conclusion: This final chapter synthesizes the main arguments, reaffirming that true prosperity requires a balance between material needs and social/ecological sustainability.
Keywords
Economic Growth, Qualitative Growth, Sustainable Prosperity, China, Innovation, GDP, Innovation Systems, Global Value Chain, Human Development Index, Social Dimension, Resource Allocation, Structural Change, Environmental Protection, Five-Year Plan, Material Needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this thesis?
The thesis focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of economic growth, specifically evaluating how societies can achieve sustainable prosperity by moving from purely quantitative growth toward qualitative development.
What are the primary thematic areas?
The work covers economic theory, measurement of innovation, the social implications of wealth, and an empirical analysis of China's economic transformation over the past three decades.
What is the main research question?
The primary inquiry is whether China can successfully navigate its current economic challenges to achieve sustainable prosperity and, more generally, what conditions must be met for prosperity to be truly sustainable.
Which scientific methods are utilized?
The author employs a qualitative analytical approach, examining economic theories (such as production functions and innovation system approaches) and applying them to observed data and socio-political developments in the Chinese context.
What does the main body cover?
The main body establishes the theoretical basis for economic growth, discusses the importance of innovation and human capital, and provides a detailed case study of China's modernization, including its reliance on foreign direct investment and its transition toward an "innovation country."
Which keywords characterize the work?
Key terms include qualitative growth, sustainable prosperity, structural change, innovation, resource management, and the Chinese economic model.
How does the author define the role of innovation in China?
Innovation is presented as the critical lever for China's transition. The author argues that China must shift from being a low-cost production hub to developing its own technological capabilities to maintain long-term growth.
What specific challenge does China face regarding its labor force?
The author highlights the inequality between urban and rural populations, noting that migrant workers must be integrated into the growth process and provided with better social security to ensure long-term stability.
What is the significance of the "Green GDP" concept?
Green GDP is discussed as a necessary adjustment to traditional metrics, accounting for the depletion and destruction of natural capital, which is crucial for evaluating long-term sustainable development.
- Quote paper
- Samuel Jung (Author), 2012, Sustainable Prosperity Through Qualitative Growth. An Economic Analysis Using The Example Of China, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/270717
