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the marketplace is capable only of calculating exclusive…

“the marketplace is capable only of calculating exclusive costs; that is; excluding all possible costs that interfere with profit. Leadership of society requires the calculation of inclusive costs. To invoke the marketplace, as if calling upon the Holy Spirit, is to limit ourselves to the narrow…” quote by John Ralston Saul
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““the marketplace is capable only of calculating exclusive costs; that is; excluding all possible costs that interfere with profit. Leadership of society requires the calculation of inclusive costs. To invoke the marketplace, as if calling upon the Holy Spirit, is to limit ourselves to the narrow and short-term interests of exclusion. (IV - From Managers and Speculators to Growth)””

John Ralston Saul

About This Quote

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

The market only tallies direct costs, ignoring broader social and environmental impacts; true leadership must consider all inclusive costs.

In simple terms: Markets ignore hidden costs; leaders must consider them.

Key Takeaway

Factor hidden costs into decisions.

Themes

economics leadership ethics environment society

Mood

thoughtful critical serious

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • corporate strategy
  • community planning
  • environmental assessment

Key Concepts

externalities social responsibility sustainability

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders balance profit with societal costs?
  • What mechanisms ensure inclusive cost accounting?
A Different Perspective

Markets alone cannot capture long‑term societal wellbeing.

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