Schnaiberg argues that consumption cannot be the leading factor in the expansion of production. Increased consumption may permit expanded production, but it does not generally cause it. In recent decades environmental degradation has followed increases in material consumption by consumers and producers. According to neoclassical economic theory, changes in consumer behavior will be sufficient to ameliorate or negate the harmful effects on the environment. This selection argues that in industrialized countries consumption levels are determined primarily by producers. It also makes the point that changes in production are essential to reversing or reducing environmental degradation.
