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Community Quote by Bill McKibben

“Community is as endangered by surplus as it is by deficit. If there is too much money floating around it enables people to have no need of each other.” quote by Bill McKibben
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“Community is as endangered by surplus as it is by deficit. If there is too much money floating around it enables people to have no need of each other.”

Bill McKibben

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The End of Nature?” by Bill McKibben, 1989

Excessive wealth can erode communal bonds just as scarcity can, because both extremes reduce mutual dependence.

In simple terms: Too much money or too little can weaken community ties.

Key Takeaway

Balance resources to foster interdependence.

Themes

community economics social cohesion wealth distribution

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • neighborhood initiatives
  • policy making
  • philanthropy
  • financial education

Key Concepts

social capital interdependence inequality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does wealth affect your sense of responsibility to others?
  • What practices can rebuild community in affluent societies?
A Different Perspective

Even with balanced resources, cultural attitudes may still prioritize individualism over collective care.

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