Are Americans In Denial?

Berry, Wendell. “Faustian Economics: Hell Hath No Limits.” Harper’s Magazine. The Harper's Magazine Foundation, May 2008. Web. 31 Dec. 2009.
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We as Americans have developed the idea that our way of life is “indestructible,” and that, whatever our problem is, science and technology will provide a solution. That is the observation of Wendell Berry, author of “Faustian Economics: Hell Hath No Limits”. He points out that, even though we are becoming aware that our access to fossil fuel could come to an end, we refuse to change our consuming behavior. Instead, we put our faith in science and technology to come up with an answer. Berry says that this way of thinking comes from the fact that Americans live in the fantasy of “presumed limitlessness”. That fantasy applies not only to possessions, but also to knowledge, science, technology and progress. In our selfish limitlessness, we have redefined freedom as ”escape from all restraint.” One negative result is that we have lost the concept of self imposed limits that define us as humans such as kindness, friendship, loyalty and love, and that contribute to the good of the community. He uses literary references about Satan and Faustus to make his point. Berry points out that the idea that we are limitless is a fantasy because we are limited to this one earth. He says that this constraint is a healthy thing.

The author’s point of view is important because the attitude of “limitlessness” could affect the future of the human race and our planet. Berry’s challenge to his audience is to look not just to science and technology for solutions, but also to our cultural heritage including religion. “Religion dismisses selfishness.” The Declaration of Independence wisely defines us as having a Creator who gives certain rights to all, thus preventing us from becoming “monstrous” in our treatment of each other. Berry also challenges his audience to look to the arts where works are confined to the limits of canvas, stage, time-constraints, etc. We should focus on “the art of living”, recognizing limits and making the most of what we have.