By its very nature, this profit maximization process does not inform us about the overall social and environmental impact of a given project on a society. This can be a great cause of concern because a project, especially a large dam project which is considered economically viable, will not necessarily contribute to the social development of a society. As empirically demonstrated by the development of various large hydro projects in Asia, a large dam project is bound to be environmentally destructive and socially unsustainable.  Author:  Choy, Yee Keong.  Publication: Pacific Affairs, Mar 22, 2004.