Why Social Development is Cyclical
Why can’t a society continuously progress from a lower state to a higher one, becoming wiser and stronger in the process? This question arises when we look at the history and development of nations. It seems to be a law of nature that societies grow, then eventually decline, while other societies rise. This phenomenon can be compared to the growth of a tree.
The Cycle of Growth and Decline
A tree begins as a young sapling, weak and easily influenced by external forces. Over time, the tree becomes stronger and more resilient. But the growth never stops. Eventually, the tree becomes a colossal structure, its branches become overgrown, and finally, the tree collapses under its own weight. This natural process is also reflected in human societies. Even those of us who often believe we possess all wisdom experience the reality that what once brought prosperity can eventually break down over time.
Changing Consciousness as a Driving Force
After World War II, Germany faced significant challenges. People were poor, many were homeless, and basic resources were scarce. However, through wise political decisions, such as those made by Ludwig Erhard, who freed the economy and did not control prices, an economic upswing was achieved. Over time, however, the consciousness of the people changed. In the past, people were hungry and eager to work hard to achieve prosperity. But as wealth increased, a certain complacency set in. Society began to take the status quo for granted and focused on merely managing what had been achieved.
The Role of Politics and Society in Cycles
It is important to recognize that politics is often a reflection of society. When the consciousness of the people changes, this is also reflected in political decisions. The idea that prosperity is guaranteed and only needs to be managed led to a form of decadence in society. Politics evolved accordingly and adopted concepts such as **Modern Monetary Theory** (MMT), which advocates for the uncontrolled printing of money. However, these developments have long-term harmful effects on society.
In summary, social developments occur in waves, similar to the fluctuations in stock markets that move in a zigzag pattern. These fluctuations are a natural consequence of changes in societal consciousness. Rather than placing all the blame on politics, we should recognize that the entire society contributes to these cycles.
Article on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modern_Monetary_Theory