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What is Big Government but the Executive’s cocaine dream…

“What is Big Government but the Executive’s cocaine dream, an activity devoted solely to jockeying for position, in which he may find license for malversation, and may take the company treasury and direct it toward those people who will support his continued incumbency--it is within the law. Its…” quote by David Mamet
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““What is Big Government but the Executive’s cocaine dream, an activity devoted solely to jockeying for position, in which he may find license for malversation, and may take the company treasury and direct it toward those people who will support his continued incumbency--it is within the law. Its street name is ‘earmarks,’ but it is theft.””

David Mamet

About This Quote

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

The quote criticizes government spending that benefits insiders, labeling it as legal theft through earmarks.

In simple terms: Government spending for personal gain is theft.

Key Takeaway

Watch for misuse of public funds.

Themes

politics corruption government ethics power

Mood

cynical critical skeptical

Type

political condemnatory analytical

When to use this quote

  • budget planning
  • policy analysis
  • public administration
  • campaign finance
  • advocacy

Key Concepts

public finance clientelism political economy legal loopholes

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we define legitimate spending versus theft?
  • What safeguards can prevent abuse?
A Different Perspective

Legal definitions may protect such practices, making reform hard.

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