Skip to content

It [knowledge] is clearly related to information, which we…

“It [knowledge] is clearly related to information, which we can now measure; and an economist especially is tempted to regard knowledge as a kind of capital structure, corresponding to information as an income flow. Knowledge, that is to say, is some kind of improbable structure or stock made up…” quote by Kenneth E. Boulding
Download Open image
“It [knowledge] is clearly related to information, which we can now measure; and an economist especially is tempted to regard knowledge as a kind of capital structure, corresponding to information as an income flow. Knowledge, that is to say, is some kind of improbable structure or stock made up essentially of patterns - that is, improbable arrangements, and the more improbable the arrangements, we might suppose, the more knowledge there is.”

Kenneth E. Boulding

About This Quote

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

Knowledge is viewed as a rare, pattern‑based asset akin to capital, where its value rises with the improbability of its structure.

In simple terms: Knowledge is rare, pattern‑based capital.

Key Takeaway

Treat knowledge as strategic capital.

Themes

economics knowledge capital information structure

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

theoretical strategic

When to use this quote

  • business strategy
  • research development
  • policy making
  • education planning

Key Concepts

information theory probability stock arrangements

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can organizations capture the value of improbable patterns?
  • What limits the conversion of knowledge into economic gain?
A Different Perspective

Knowledge is not always measurable like financial capital.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Kenneth E. Boulding

Explore all 123 Kenneth E. Boulding quotes

More Arrangements quotes

Browse all 536 Arrangements quotes