Around the world Quote by Daron Acemoğlu
““Putting an end to foreign aid is impractical and would likely lead to additional human suffering. It is impractical because citizens of many Western nations feel guilt and unease about the economic and humanitarian disasters around the world, and foreign aid makes them believe that something is being done to combat the problems.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Lecture on Development Economics, 2022
Ending foreign aid is unrealistic; it satisfies moral guilt and mitigates suffering, so removing it would increase hardship.
In simple terms: Aid eases guilt and helps people; stopping it hurts.
Key Takeaway
Consider the moral role of aid.
Themes
ethics
economics
humanitarianism
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
analytical
policy‑oriented
When to use this quote
- government budgeting
- NGO planning
- public opinion
- humanitarian crises
Key Concepts
public policy
moral psychology
development aid
Questions to Reflect On
- How does aid affect donor societies' sense of responsibility?
- Can aid be reformed rather than eliminated?
A Different Perspective
Aid may create dependency and reduce incentives for systemic change.
