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While the law [of competition] may be sometimes hard for…

“While the law [of competition] may be sometimes hard for the individual, it is best for the race, because it insures the survival of the fittest in every department. We accept and welcome, therefore, as conditions to which we must accommodate ourselves, great inequality of environment, the…” quote by Andrew Carnegie
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“While the law [of competition] may be sometimes hard for the individual, it is best for the race, because it insures the survival of the fittest in every department. We accept and welcome, therefore, as conditions to which we must accommodate ourselves, great inequality of environment, the concentration of business, industrial and commercial, in the hands of a few, and the law of competition between these, as being not only beneficial, but essential for the future progress of the race.”

Andrew Carnegie

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Competition creates inequality but is argued as essential for societal progress, despite concentrating power among few.

In simple terms: Competition is seen as vital for progress, even if it creates inequality.

Key Takeaway

Consider the costs of unchecked competition.

Themes

economics ethics societal progress

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • business strategy
  • public policy
  • education reform
  • environmental regulation

Key Concepts

capitalism social Darwinism wealth distribution

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is competition always the best driver of innovation?
  • How can societies balance competition with equity?
A Different Perspective

May ignore the harm to social cohesion and fairness.

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