Dr. Smith: One of the problems we will be looking at over the next few weeks is the problem of economic growth versus the environment. Economists have noticed that economic growth often comes at the cost of the environment, especially in developing countries, where the growth of basic industries often comes at a great cost to the environment. I’d like to hear what you think. Do you think it’s more important to emphasize economic growth, or do you think that the environment should come first? 

Alex (Student 1) : I think economic growth should be emphasized, especially in developing countries. If we want people in those countries to have a better standard of living, we need to emphasize the economy. Those countries need new factories and new jobs to have a better life. I think people living in poverty have other things to worry about besides the environment. 

Wendy (Student 2) : I disagree with Alex. I think we should emphasize the environment. We cannot ignore the damage done to the environment by economic growth, especially for the sake of future generations. We need to pass on to them a clean planet. Developing countries should make sure that their economic growth does not come at the cost of the environment, by building greener industries, for example.