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Bad luck Quote by Anonymous

“Throughout history, poverty is the normal condition of man. Advances which permit this norm to be exceeded — here and there, now and then — are the work of an extremely small minority, frequently despised, often condemned, and almost always opposed by all right-thinking people. Whenever this tiny…” quote by Anonymous
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“Throughout history, poverty is the normal condition of man. Advances which permit this norm to be exceeded — here and there, now and then — are the work of an extremely small minority, frequently despised, often condemned, and almost always opposed by all right-thinking people. Whenever this tiny minority is kept from creating, or (as sometimes happens) is driven out of a society, the people then slip back into abject poverty. This is known as "bad luck.”

Anonymous

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Economist, 2010

Poverty is the default state; only a tiny, often scorned minority can lift societies out of it, yet they face constant opposition.

In simple terms: Poverty is common; few can change it, but they’re resisted.

Key Takeaway

Support innovative minorities to combat poverty.

Themes

poverty innovation minority opposition social change

Mood

critical hopeful

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy reform
  • entrepreneurship
  • education programs
  • grassroots activism

Key Concepts

economics political science ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What incentives can protect innovators?
  • How can societies value dissenting ideas?
A Different Perspective

Minorities may lack resources, making change difficult.

2.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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