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Capitalism is the sorcerer's apprentice: it has summoned…

“Capitalism is the sorcerer's apprentice: it has summoned up powers which have spun wildly out of control and now threaten to destroy us.The task of socialism is not to spur on those powers but to bring them under rational human control.” quote by Terry Eagleton
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“Capitalism is the sorcerer's apprentice: it has summoned up powers which have spun wildly out of control and now threaten to destroy us.The task of socialism is not to spur on those powers but to bring them under rational human control.”

Terry Eagleton

About This Quote

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

Capitalism has unleashed forces beyond its control, threatening humanity; socialism should harness those forces rationally.

In simple terms: Capitalism runs wild; socialism must manage it.

Key Takeaway

Use rational governance to steer powerful systems.

Themes

economics politics control risk society

Mood

cautious critical

Type

analytical political

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • financial regulation
  • environmental governance
  • technology oversight

Key Concepts

systems theory political economy regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance innovation with oversight?
  • What mechanisms ensure rational control?
A Different Perspective

Assumes socialism can effectively control complex systems.

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