--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: The typical capitalists are lovers of…" description: "\"“The typical capitalists are lovers of power rather than sensual indulgence, but they have the same tendency to crush and to take tribute that the crud..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b57/ellen-ruppel-shell-35531_capitalism_the-typical-capitalists-are-lovers-of-po_730676.jpg" --- # The typical capitalists are lovers of power rather than… ![“The typical capitalists are lovers of power rather than sensual indulgence, but they have the same tendency to crush and to take tribute that the cruder types of sensualism possess. The discipline of the capitalist is the same as that of the frugalist. He differs from the latter in that he has no…” quote by Ellen Ruppel Shell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b57/ellen-ruppel-shell-35531_capitalism_the-typical-capitalists-are-lovers-of-po_730676.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b57/ellen-ruppel-shell-35531_capitalism_the-typical-capitalists-are-lovers-of-po_730676.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b57/ellen-ruppel-shell-35531_capitalism_the-typical-capitalists-are-lovers-of-po_730676.jpg) > ““The typical capitalists are lovers of power rather than sensual indulgence, but they have the same tendency to crush and to take tribute that the cruder types of sensualism possess. The discipline of the capitalist is the same as that of the frugalist. He differs from the latter in that he has no regard for the objects through which productive power is acquired. HE does not hesitate to exploit natural resources, lands, dumb animals and even his fellowman. Capital to such a man is an abstract fund, made up of perishable elements which are quickly replaced… The frugalist…stands in marked contrast to the attitude of the capitalist. The frugalist takes a vital interest in his tools, in his land, and in the goods he produces. He has a definite attachment to each. He dislikes to see an old coat wear out, an old wagon break down, or an old horse go lame. He always thinks of concrete things, wants them and nothing else. He desires not land, but a given farm, not horses or cattle and machines, but particular breeds and implements; not shelter, but a home…. He rejects as unworthy what is below standard and despises as luxurious what is above or outside of it. Dominated by activities, he thinks of capital as a means to an end.”” [Ellen Ruppel Shell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/ellen-ruppel-shell/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Capitalists prioritize abstract profit over concrete stewardship, unlike frugalists who value tangible tools and resources. **In simple terms:** Capitalists chase profit, frugalists cherish tools. Key Takeaway Balance profit motives with responsible stewardship. Themes economics ethics resource management Mood critical analytical Type philosophical economic When to use this quote - business strategy - environmental policy - personal finance - community planning Key Concepts Abstract capital tangible stewardship Questions to Reflect On - Can profit be aligned with stewardship? - What incentives encourage frugalist values? 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Capital to such a man is an abstract fund, made up of perishable elements which are quickly replaced… The frugalist…stands in marked contrast to the attitude of the capitalist. The frugalist takes a vital interest in his tools, in his land, and in the goods he produces. He has a definite attachment to each. He dislikes to see an old coat wear out, an old wagon break down, or an old horse go lame. He always thinks of concrete things, wants them and nothing else. He desires not land, but a given farm, not horses or cattle and machines, but particular breeds and implements; not shelter, but a home…. He rejects as unworthy what is below standard and despises as luxurious what is above or outside of it. 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