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After all, despite the economic advantage to firms that…

“After all, despite the economic advantage to firms that employed child labor, it was in the social interest, as a national policy, to abolish it - removing that advantage for all firms.” quote by Barry Commoner
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“After all, despite the economic advantage to firms that employed child labor, it was in the social interest, as a national policy, to abolish it - removing that advantage for all firms.”

Barry Commoner

About This Quote

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

Economic benefits of child labor were outweighed by societal harm, prompting policy change to protect workers.

In simple terms: Child labor harms society despite profit.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize social welfare over short‑term profit.

Themes

ethics labor rights public policy

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • legislation
  • corporate responsibility
  • education reform
  • consumer activism

Key Concepts

social welfare economic trade‑offs

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can businesses balance profit and ethics?
  • What role should consumers play in enforcing humane labor?
A Different Perspective

Economic arguments alone may not sway all stakeholders.

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