Skip to content

Country Quote by David Ogilvy

“I did not feel 'evil' when I wrote advertisements for Puerto Rico. They helped attract industry and tourists to a country which had been living on the edge of starvation for 400 years.” quote by David Ogilvy
Download Open image
“I did not feel 'evil' when I wrote advertisements for Puerto Rico. They helped attract industry and tourists to a country which had been living on the edge of starvation for 400 years.”

David Ogilvy

About This Quote

Source Book: Confessions of an Advertising Man, 1963

He justified promoting Puerto Rico despite moral concerns because it spurred economic relief for a starving population.

In simple terms: He saw ads as a tool to help a poor region.

Key Takeaway

Consider impact over personal discomfort.

Themes

ethics advertising development poverty public good

Mood

reflective pragmatic

Type

ethical pragmatic

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • tourism campaigns
  • corporate social responsibility
  • non‑profit fundraising

Key Concepts

utilitarianism social responsibility economic development

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it acceptable to compromise personal ethics for perceived greater good?
  • How to balance profit motives with social impact?
A Different Perspective

May overlook long‑term cultural or environmental costs.

3.8 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by David Ogilvy

Explore all 255 David Ogilvy quotes

More Country quotes

Browse all 29,882 Country quotes