It's not clear that economic growth is a good marker for technological or societal growth. In fact, I'd suggest that technological growth benefits from economi

It's not clear that economic growth is a good marker for technological or societal growth. In fact, I'd suggest that technological growth benefits from economically lean periods, when people have to strive to make things less bloated and more efficient - exactly as you say. Is this a good thing? It's not as clear-cut as you claim. I would personally take peace over growth, any time.