Economics Quote by Greg Fitzsimmons
“Trickle-down economics - it didn't work. The whole idea was supply-side economics: give rich people a lot of money; they'll spend it, it'll go into the economy. Here's what we found out - rich people, really good at keeping all the money. That's how they got rich. If you want it in the economy, give it to the poor people. You know what they're really good at? Spending all their money.”
About This Quote
Source Stand‑up comedy routine, 2015
Supply‑side policies assume wealth will trickle down, but in practice the affluent tend to retain most of it, limiting broader economic benefit.
In simple terms: Giving money to the rich doesn’t boost the economy.
Target assistance to those likely to spend it.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- policy debates
- community development
- social welfare programs
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do the rich save more than spend?
- What alternative policies could better stimulate demand?
The argument oversimplifies complex economic dynamics and ignores other factors influencing spending.