E.F. Schumacher
E.F. Schumacher: A Visionary Economist and Philosopher
==============================================
Full Name and Common Aliases
E.F. Schumacher was born Ernst Friedrich "Fritz" Schumacher on September 16, 1911, in Bad Honnef, Germany. He is commonly known as E.F. Schumacher or simply Fritz.
Birth and Death Dates
September 16, 1911 - August 4, 1977
Nationality and Profession(s)
German-born economist, philosopher, and writer. Schumacher was a key figure in the development of the concept of "Intermediate Technology" and its application to economic development in developing countries.
Early Life and Background
Schumacher's family moved to England when he was just a child. He studied economics at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge University, graduating with honors in 1933. During his studies, Schumacher was heavily influenced by the works of Karl Marx, but later developed a more nuanced understanding of economic systems. After completing his degree, Schumacher worked as an economist for various organizations, including the Ministry of Economic Warfare and the British Intelligence Service.
Major Accomplishments
Schumacher's most significant contribution to economics was the development of the concept of "Intermediate Technology," which aimed to bridge the gap between traditional, small-scale technologies used in rural areas and modern, high-tech industrial systems. This approach focused on creating affordable, adaptable technologies that could be easily implemented by local communities.
Notable Works or Actions
Schumacher's book Small is Beautiful (1973) became a bestseller and is still widely read today. In the book, he argued that economic growth should prioritize human well-being and environmental sustainability over mere industrial production. Other notable works include This I Propose (1968), Good Work (1979), and A Guide for the Perplexed (1977).
Impact and Legacy
Schumacher's ideas have had a lasting impact on economic development, sustainable living, and environmentalism. His concept of Intermediate Technology has inspired countless projects around the world, promoting self-sufficiency and local economic empowerment. Schumacher's emphasis on human-scale technology and his critique of industrialization continue to influence policymakers, activists, and ordinary citizens.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
E.F. Schumacher is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful critiques of modern economics and his vision for a more equitable, sustainable future. His advocacy for Intermediate Technology has inspired countless individuals and organizations working towards economic development and environmental conservation. Schumacher's emphasis on human well-being and the importance of small-scale, local technologies continues to resonate with people from diverse backgrounds and professions.
In conclusion, E.F. Schumacher was a visionary economist and philosopher whose ideas continue to shape our understanding of economics, technology, and sustainable living. His legacy serves as a reminder that economic growth and environmental protection are not mutually exclusive goals, but rather intertwined aspects of human well-being.
Quotes by E.F. Schumacher
Study how a society uses its land, and you can come to pretty reliable conclusions as to what its future will be.
If greed were not the master of modern man, how could it be that the frenzy of economic activity does not abate as higher standards of living are attained, and that it is precisely the richest societies which pursue their economic advantage with the greatest ruthlessness?
I certainly never feel discouraged. I can’t myself raise the winds that might blow us or this ship into a better world. But I can at least put up the sail so that when the winds comes, I can catch it.
The purpose of work is to give people a chance to utilize and develop their faculties; to enable them to overcome their ego-centeredness by joining others in a common task; and to bring for the goods and services needed for a becoming existence.
An attitude to life which seeks fulfillment in the single-minded pursuit of wealth – in short, materialism – does not fit into this world, because it contains within itself no limiting principle, while the environment in which it is placed is strictly limited.
Nobody really likes large-scale organizations; nobody likes to take orders from a superior who takes orders from a superior who takes orders...
The heart of the matter, as I see it, is the stark fact that world poverty is primarily a problem of two million villages, and thus a problem of two thousand million villagers.
