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Something that comes to us, some gym shoe that comes to us…

“Something that comes to us, some gym shoe that comes to us as a result of child labor from a brutal dictatorship, where people do not have basic freedoms, it wouldn't bug me to tax the living Dickens out of that thing or even to forbid its importation whatsoever. But that's a moral question, not…” quote by P. J. O'Rourke
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“Something that comes to us, some gym shoe that comes to us as a result of child labor from a brutal dictatorship, where people do not have basic freedoms, it wouldn't bug me to tax the living Dickens out of that thing or even to forbid its importation whatsoever. But that's a moral question, not an economic question.”

P. J. O'Rourke

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 argues that ethical concerns about a product’s origin outweigh any economic considerations, suggesting that moral judgments should dictate policy, not market forces.

In simple terms: Moral issues trump economics.

Key Takeaway

Ethics should guide trade decisions.

Themes

ethics politics globalization labor rights consumerism

Mood

critical ironic concerned

Type

political commentary social critique

When to use this quote

  • import regulation
  • taxation debates
  • consumer boycotts
  • corporate sourcing
  • government trade policy

Key Concepts

moral philosophy economic policy human rights

Practical Applications

  • policy advocacy
  • ethical consumer campaigns

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should governments intervene in markets for moral reasons?
  • How can consumers influence supply chains?
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