Attention Quote by E. F. Schumacher
“Economic policies absorb almost the entire attention of government, and at the same time become ever more impotent. The simplest things, which only fifty years ago one could do without difficulty, cannot get done any more. The richer a society, the more impossible it become to do worthwhile things without immediate payoff.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Small Is Beautiful, 1973
Wealthy societies focus on policy at the expense of practical action, making simple tasks impossible without immediate returns.
In simple terms: Rich societies neglect simple, long‑term work.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize practical, long‑term projects over short‑term gains.
Themes
economics
policy
societal complexity
short‑termism
Mood
frustrated
reflective
Type
critical
analytical
When to use this quote
- government planning
- community projects
- everyday problem solving
- non‑profit initiatives
Key Concepts
systems thinking
public choice
institutional inertia
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we redesign incentives for long‑term value?
- What simple actions are being ignored today?
A Different Perspective
Even with resources, bureaucracy can stall execution.
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