To say 'I love you' one must first be able to say the 'I.'
Ayn RandRead
Capitalism has created the highest standard of living ever known on earth. The evidence is incontrovertible. The contrast between West and East Berlin is the latest demonstration, like a laboratory experiment for all to see. Yet those who are loudest in proclaiming their desire to eliminate poverty are loudest in denouncing capitalism. Man's well-being is not their goal.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Capitalism has greatly improved living standards, yet some call for its elimination despite its benefits.
Ayn Rand argues that capitalism has led to unprecedented prosperity and a high standard of living, evidenced by the stark contrast between the economies of West and East Berlin. She suggests that those who criticize capitalism while advocating for the elimination of poverty may not have the genuine well-being of mankind as their goal, highlighting a contradiction in their beliefs.
Themes
CapitalismStandard Of LivingPovertyWell-BeingEconomy
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on economic systems, one might quote Ayn Rand to support the argument for capitalism.
More from Ayn Rand
All quotes →The difference between animals and humans is that animals change themselves for the environment, but humans change the environment for themselves.
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It is my eyes which see, and the sight of my eyes grants beauty to the earth. It is my ears which hear, and the hearing of my ears gives its song to the world. It is my mind which thinks, and the judgement of my mind is the only searchlight that can find the truth. It is my will which chooses, and the choice of my will is the only edict I must respect.
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What is the basic, the essential, the crucial principle that differentiates freedom from slavery? It is the principle of voluntary action versus physical coercion or compulsion.
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One method of destroying a concept is by diluting its meaning. Observe that by ascribing rights to the unborn, i.e., the nonliving, the anti-abortionists obliterate the rights of the living.
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I think that when in doubt about the truth of an issue, it's safer and in better taste to select the least numerous of the adversaries.
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