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In fact, the wage-price spiral is the functional…

“In fact, the wage-price spiral is the functional counterpart of unemployment. The latter occurs when there is insufficient demand; the spiral operates when there is too much and also,unfortunately, when there is just enough.” quote by John Kenneth Galbraith
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“In fact, the wage-price spiral is the functional counterpart of unemployment. The latter occurs when there is insufficient demand; the spiral operates when there is too much and also,unfortunately, when there is just enough.”

John Kenneth Galbraith

About This Quote

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

Wage‑price spiral shows how wages and prices push each other up, but it can also arise from low demand or equilibrium.

In simple terms: Wages and prices can chase each other, even when demand is low.

Key Takeaway

Watch for hidden inflation loops.

Themes

inflation economics policy market dynamics

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

economic educational

When to use this quote

  • business planning
  • government budgeting
  • salary negotiations
  • investment decisions

Key Concepts

price‑wage feedback macroeconomic instability policy lag

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policy could break the cycle?
  • How does consumer confidence affect wages?
A Different Perspective

Spiral may be mitigated by demand‑stimulating policies.

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