Many nations equate robust Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth with undeniable national progress. The sheer accumulation of wealth, evidenced by rising economic indicators, often serves as the primary benchmark in global policy discussions. However, relying solely on GDP presents a dangerously narrow view of societal well-being. A rapidly growing economy can mask deep underlying inequalities, where prosperity is concentrated among a select few while significant portions of the population remain marginalized. Furthermore, environmental degradation and social instability—factors external to mere monetary output—are often ignored by purely economic metrics. True national development must therefore adopt a multidimensional lens, integrating measures of equitable resource distribution, public health outcomes, and ecological sustainability alongside fiscal expansion for a holistic assessment.

According to the passage, what is the main argument regarding the sufficiency of economic growth as a measure of national progress?

Question

Many nations equate robust Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth with undeniable national progress. The sheer accumulation of wealth, evidenced by rising economic indicators, often serves as the primary benchmark in global policy discussions. However, relying solely on GDP presents a dangerously narrow view of societal well-being. A rapidly growing economy can mask deep underlying inequalities, where prosperity is concentrated among a select few while significant portions of the population remain marginalized. Furthermore, environmental degradation and social instability—factors external to mere monetary output—are often ignored by purely economic metrics. True national development must therefore adopt a multidimensional lens, integrating measures of equitable resource distribution, public health outcomes, and ecological sustainability alongside fiscal expansion for a holistic assessment.

According to the passage, what is the main argument regarding the sufficiency of economic growth as a measure of national progress?

Accepted Answer

National progress requires integrating social equity and environmental health metrics alongside economic indicators to form a comprehensive assessment.. A is incorrect because the passage explicitly argues that relying solely on GDP presents a 'dangerously narrow view'. B is correct because the passage advocates for adopting a 'multidimensional lens, integrating measures of equitable resource distribution, public health outcomes, and ecological sustainability'. C is incorrect because the text warns that rapid growth can mask deep underlying inequalities. D is incorrect because while environmental factors are mentioned, the conclusion calls for integration, not an abandonment of economic metrics entirely.