20th century Quote by Charles A. Murray
“The most troubling aspect of social policy towards the poor in late 20th century America is or how much it costs, but what it has bought.”
About This Quote
Source Article: “The Cost of Social Policy” by Charles A. Murray, The American Spectator, 1999
Policy should be judged not only by expense but by the outcomes it produces.
In simple terms: Policy impact matters more than cost.
Key Takeaway
Evaluate results over price.
Themes
policy
economics
poverty
public spending
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
policy
economic
When to use this quote
- government budgeting
- poverty alleviation
- tax policy
- program evaluation
Key Concepts
cost‑benefit analysis
social welfare
Questions to Reflect On
- What metrics best assess policy success?
- Can cost be ignored if outcomes are positive?
A Different Perspective
Complex outcomes are hard to measure.
