Blessed Quote by Emma Goldman
“Politics is the reflex of the business and industrial world, the mottos of which are: 'To take is more blessed than to give'; 'buy cheap and sell dear'; 'one soiled hand washes the other.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: The Social and Political Thought of Emma Goldman, 1910
Politics mirrors business motives, prioritizing profit over generosity, and mutual exploitation.
In simple terms: Politics follows business logic, favoring profit and exploitation.
Key Takeaway
Question the profit‑driven motives in governance.
Themes
politics
economics
ethics
power
exploitation
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- activism
- business ethics
- public discourse
- legislation
Key Concepts
capitalism
self‑interest
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How can profit motives be balanced with public good?
- What alternatives exist to exploitative practices?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic visions may ignore pragmatic constraints of governance.
