The Importance Of Greed In Modern Society

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Recommended: Introduction on Greed

The Merriam-Webster online encyclopedia defines greed as “ A selfish desire to have more of

something especially money.” Is greed truly necessary in a capitalist, free market economy like we

currently have in the United States. I hope to describe how greed is what fuels our modern society and

what effect it has on others.

The advantages of the greed for an individual are clear in a free market economy. People need to

want more of what they already have or need to want that nice house, fancy car, and truly succeed in a

world that requires lots of money in order to have a great life. Greed is good in moderation, but some

people take it to far like corporations that employ kids for pennies a day overseas. Greed should inspire

those who want to earn the almighty
A greedy person at this level is no longer respected

by others, simply because they have become to greedy.

It is human nature to define oneself by one 's personal value system. One who values money

over all else has now lost this important feature of what makes them a decent person. As humans, we

are defined by our values. It is very important to balance the two, a great person can have money and

still be charitable to others in need.

What motivates individuals other than greed? I would say the desire to be loved, have friends,

and just be happy in life is enough for them. The people who take jobs they really enjoy doing not

necessarily because it is the highest paying. Money isn’t everything to this type of individual.

Greed fuels consumption. Consumption stimulates the economy because of the trade involved

in consumption. Therefore, greed can in fact stimulate the economy. This does not mean, however, that

greed in its extreme form is good by any means. Greed also neglects the world in which we live. Greed

focuses only on the self and ignores poverty, or often perpetrates the plight of the poor. This leads to

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