I do not prize the word cheap. It is not a word of…
“I do not prize the word cheap. It is not a word of inspiration. It is the badge of poverty, the signal of distress. Cheap merchandise means cheap men and cheap men mean a cheap country.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Warns that cheapness reflects poverty and distress, harming individuals and nations.
In simple terms: Cheap goods signal poverty and national weakness.
Key Takeaway
Promote quality and dignity in production.
Themes
economics
ethics
national identity
consumer culture
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- Business strategy
- government regulation
- consumer education
- trade policy
Key Concepts
Sociology
poverty
quality standards
Questions to Reflect On
- How balance affordability with dignity?
- What policies ensure fair wages?
A Different Perspective
Counterpoint: Low‑cost goods can aid low‑income populations.