what else could be the USA’s “engine of the economy” if not consumer spending?

Question

I see headlines and articles discussing how consumer spending is driving, or of late, possibly slowing, the economy. But if not for people buying non-essential products and services, what else would drive the economy? Everyone needs food, shelter, and clothing. Many need cars, depending on their location. But I take it that spending on necessities is not enough, especially non-consumable or long lasting things like houses and cars.

In: Economics

Answer 1

Consumer spending has to drive the world economy. Nothing else can.

The US consumer spending drives the U.S. economy and the world economy.

If the rest of the world greatly increased its consumer spending that could drive the world economy instead of the US consumer spending doing it.