Corporations Quote by Cornel West
“There used to be corporations that produced products. Now there are just banks that produce deals, hedge-fund-driven banks and derivatives and those things.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: “The Evolution of Capitalism,” 2015, university talk
Corporations once made tangible products; now financial institutions dominate, creating complex deals and derivatives that dominate the economy.
In simple terms: Economic focus shifted from product creation to financial engineering.
Recognize the impact of finance on society.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- investment banking
- policy making
- consumer behavior
- market regulation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this shift affect everyday workers?
- What alternatives could restore product‑centric economies?
Financial focus can increase inequality and systemic risk.