There are people who are especially attracted to the concept of "climbing the ladder" so to increase their status, financial position, and sense of self-worth. In part, as a result of the work ethic (行为准则) , these people are internally "driven" to work. Frequently, foreign visitors have observed that Americans spend an excessive amount of time working and as a consequence, Americans have little time for leisure or personal relationships. In American English a new word has been created to describe people who work compulsively. The word "workaholic" describes an individual who is as devoted to work as an alcoholic is addicted to liquor. There are conflicting points of view about workaholics. Those concerned with problems of mental stress believe workaholics abuse themselves physically and mentally. Others hold that workaholics are valuable members of society because they are extremely productive. The American culture values achievement, efficiency, and production—a workaholic upholds these values.

There is much discussion today about whether economic g...

单项选择题There is much discussion today about whether economic growth is desirable at an earlier period; our desire for material wealth may have been justified. Now, however, this desire for more than we need is causing serious problems. Even though we have good intentions, we may be producing too much, too fast. Those who criticize economic growth argue that we must slow down. They believe that society is approaching certain limits on growth. There include the fixed supply of natural resources, the possible negative effects of industry on the natural environment, and the continuing increase in the world’s population. As society reaches these limits, economic growth can no longer continue, and the quality of life will decrease. People who want more economic growth, on the other hand, argue that even at the present growth rate there are still many poor people in the world. These proponents of economic growth believe that only more growth can create the capital needed to improve the quality of life in the world. Furthermore, they argue that only continued growth can provide the financial resources required to protect our natural surroundings from industrialization. This debate over the desirability of continued economic growth is of vital importance to business and industry. If those who argue against economic growth are correct, the problems they mention cannot be ignored. To find a solution, economists and the business community must pay attention to these problems and continue discussing them with one another.