One of the most vexing concerns facing the American public today is growth. Economic growth has been central to America's success. As the economic pie has grown, new generations have had a chance to carve a slice for themselves. Indeed, economic growth and the opportunities it brings have helped keep class friction in the United States at a minimum. In many communities across America, citizens' groups find themselves resisting proposed land developments for fear their quality of life will deteriorate.
Similar concerns occur on the global level.
Because of the huge size of its economy, the United States necessarily will be a major actor in such matters. But its affluence also complicates its role. There are no easy answers. But to the extent that America and other nations meet their fundamental economic challenges, these questions will become increasingly important. They remind us that while a strong economy may be a prerequisite to social progress, it is not the ultimate goal.