The text defines the GDP as a measurement of economic activity. Think about other things that may "help" the GDP that are really not good for our society in general, such as the economic activity required to clean up oil spills or increases in consumer debt to buy more goods. In addition, there are other situations that may "hurt" the GDP by limiting expenditures on items but help the overall good of society, such as reusing plastic bags or installing solar water heaters (thus limiting spending on oil, gas, or electricity). Does the definition of GDP need to be revised?