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Banner Quote by Charles Krauthammer

“It doesn't take a genius to see what happens when the entitlement state outgrows the economy upon which it rests. The time of Greece, Cyprus, Portugal, Spain, the rest of insolvent social-democratic Europe — and now Detroit — is the time for conservatives to raise the banner of Stein's Law and…” quote by Charles Krauthammer
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“It doesn't take a genius to see what happens when the entitlement state outgrows the economy upon which it rests. The time of Greece, Cyprus, Portugal, Spain, the rest of insolvent social-democratic Europe — and now Detroit — is the time for conservatives to raise the banner of Stein's Law and yell "Stop." You can kick the can down the road, but at some point it falls over a cliff.”

Charles Krauthammer

About This Quote

Source Speech: Commentary on fiscal sustainability, 2008

When government entitlement spending exceeds the economic base, collapse becomes inevitable.

In simple terms: Entitlement spending must match economic capacity.

Key Takeaway

Limit spending to sustainable levels.

Themes

fiscal responsibility government economics

Mood

cautious critical

Type

analytical political

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • budget planning
  • state reform
  • municipal finance

Key Concepts

Stein's Law budget deficits public finance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance welfare and fiscal health?
  • What alternatives exist to austerity?
A Different Perspective

Political opposition may block necessary cuts.

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