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To measure prices by a currency that is called by the same…

“To measure prices by a currency that is called by the same names as gold, but that is really inferior in value to gold, and then - because those prices are nominally higher than gold prices - to say that they are inflated, relatively to gold, is a perfect absurdity.” quote by Lysander Spooner
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“To measure prices by a currency that is called by the same names as gold, but that is really inferior in value to gold, and then - because those prices are nominally higher than gold prices - to say that they are inflated, relatively to gold, is a perfect absurdity.”

Lysander Spooner

About This Quote

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

The argument claims that labeling gold‑priced goods as “inflated” because they are priced higher than gold is illogical, as gold itself is the true standard.

In simple terms: Calling higher‑priced items “inflated” is absurd if gold is the baseline.

Key Takeaway

Question the basis of inflation metrics.

Themes

economics inflation gold standard price comparison

Mood

analytical skeptical

Type

economic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • investment analysis
  • policy debates
  • academic research

Key Concepts

monetary theory valuation relative pricing

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is gold a reliable benchmark?
  • How do we define “inflation” accurately?
A Different Perspective

Gold’s price can also fluctuate, making the comparison unstable.

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