Does prosperity lead to materialism?
Critics warn that the market economy and prosperity would lead to outright materialism. Why should that be? Should a people like the Germans, who have just got over a number of years of deprivation, not be allowed to eat their fill and afford a little luxury; in short not be allowed to indulge in a consumption binge? Nonsense! Economic policy in Germany does not think much of the English austerity policy which demands thrift and frugality. Any consumption means growth and as long as the economy grows as a whole, there is enough for all.