Abuse Quote by Dan Smoot
“Unable to maintain their government-granted monopoly, the powerful railroad interests turned to government to do the regulating and price-fixing which they were unable to do themselves. In fact, the pressure that induced Congress to enact the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887 did not come from reformers bemoaning abuses by the powerful railroad interests; it came from the railroad interests themselves, asking Congress to shield them against the harsh winds of competition.”
About This Quote
Source Historical: U.S. Congressional Record, 1887, Interstate Commerce Act discussion
Railroad companies lobbied for government regulation to protect their monopoly, shifting responsibility onto the state.
In simple terms: Railroads asked the government to regulate them to keep their power.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how powerful interests may seek regulation to limit competition.
Themes
politics
economics
regulation
corporate power
government intervention
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- business strategy
- public policy formation
- anti‑trust actions
Key Concepts
monopoly
lobbying
public policy
market dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Who benefits when industry asks for regulation?
- How can citizens ensure regulation serves the public?
A Different Perspective
Regulation can entrench existing power rather than curb it.
![“I don't trust this [american] government to be regulating corporations. I trust big business to be regulated [by itself] and to be a party to a decent solution.” quote by Ezra Klein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/74a/ezra-klein-19354_american-government_i-don-t-trust-this-american-government-t_1669535.jpg)
