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Atlantic city Quote by Bruce Caldwell

“Those concessions might also explain why Keynes responded to the book as he did, a response that might surprise later generations. Keynes read it on the boat on the way to Bretton Woods, and on arriving in Atlantic City sent a letter saying that it was a “grand book” and that “morally and…” quote by Bruce Caldwell
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““Those concessions might also explain why Keynes responded to the book as he did, a response that might surprise later generations. Keynes read it on the boat on the way to Bretton Woods, and on arriving in Atlantic City sent a letter saying that it was a “grand book” and that “morally and philosophically I find myself in agreement with virtually the whole of it; and not only in agreement with it, but in a deeply moved agreement” (Keynes to Hayek, June 28, 1944, quoted in Keynes 1980b, 385). Keynes went on to say that they would probably disagree on the question of where to draw the line regarding more or less intervention. Keynes thought that almost certainly more planning was necessary, which could be carried out safely if the lead- ers were “rightly orientated in their own minds and hearts to the moral is- sue” (Keynes 1980b, 387). So there were obvious differences between them. But the general sentiment expressed underlines once again the fact that in the context of their times and especially with respect to central planning and the men of science who advocated such a path for Britain, Keynes and Hayek were on the same side.””

Bruce Caldwell

About This Quote

Source Book: Keynes 1980b, page 385 (quoted)

Keynes admired a book's moral and philosophical stance, yet differed on the extent of intervention, showing nuanced agreement despite divergent policy views.

In simple terms: Keynes liked the book but disagreed on how much government planning is needed.

Key Takeaway

Recognize agreement can coexist with policy differences.

Themes

agreement policy economics

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

Atlantic city:0 Books:0 Keynes:1 Road to serfdom:0 Keynes Responded:1 Keynes Read:1 Agreement Keynes:1 Keynes Thought:1 Quoted Keynes:0

When to use this quote

  • academic discussion
  • economic planning
  • political negotiation

Key Concepts

philosophy public policy historical debate

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance shared values with policy disputes?
  • When is compromise possible?
A Different Perspective

The book’s influence may be overstated; context matters.

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