Final answer:
Option 'd' is incorrect because modern economic growth has indeed had a profound effect on the average lifespan of human beings by improving healthcare, nutrition, and overall living standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to characteristics of modern economic growth which has been a defining feature of the world economy over the last two centuries. As we explore the correct answer to the question, we'll see that modern economic growth did indeed spread slowly across the globe, and many societies are still yet to experience it. In the timescale of humanity, the occurrence of modern economic growth over the last 200 years or so is a fairly recent phenomenon. This growth has had substantial impacts on societies, including altering cultures and political structures.
The option which does not correctly characterize modern economic growth is 'd. It has not affected the average lifespan of human beings.' On the contrary, one of the significant outcomes of modern economic growth, especially one driven by the Industrial Revolution, has been the remarkable improvement in average lifespan due to better healthcare, nutrition, and living standards.