Environmental Quote by Antonin Scalia
“It is not rational, never mind 'appropriate,' to impose billions of dollars in economic costs in return for a few dollars in health or environmental benefits.”
About This Quote
Source Opinion: Supreme Court oral argument, 2012
Imposing massive economic costs for minimal health or environmental gains is irrational and unjustified.
In simple terms: Huge costs for tiny benefits are unreasonable.
Key Takeaway
Avoid disproportionate spending.
Themes
economics
environment
public policy
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
legal
policy
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- environmental regulation
- healthcare funding
- government procurement
Key Concepts
cost‑benefit analysis
rational decision‑making
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the cost truly disproportionate?
- What alternative metrics could guide decisions?
A Different Perspective
Benefits may be hard to quantify, making strict cost‑benefit analysis challenging.
