Capitalism Quote by Jean Vanier
““At the same time, however, the necessity for economic change in our countries has led us to conceive laws and accept traditions often at the expense of the individual person. Just when many are becoming conscious of the fundamental heritage of the Judeo-Christian tradition to respect each human person, friend or foe, within the actual structure of our society to apply this truth. The very efficiency demanded by our technocratic industrial society renders the life of the old, the unstable and the handicapped almost impossible. as the values of efficiency, individualism, and wealth become the only motivations, they tend to stifle the profound aspirations of man so that little by little he loses all sense of fellowship and community.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the United Nations, 1995
Societal focus on efficiency and wealth can erode individual dignity and community bonds.
In simple terms: Efficiency focus harms community and dignity.
Key Takeaway
Balance progress with human respect.
Themes
community
dignity
efficiency
individualism
community
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
philosophical
social
When to use this quote
- Policy making
- urban planning
- healthcare
- education
- nonprofit work
Key Concepts
Human rights
social ethics
technocracy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect individuals while pursuing efficiency?
- What policies nurture community in a technocratic world?
A Different Perspective
Economic growth may conflict with personal well‑being.
![“Neither Italian fascism nor German national "socialism" have anything in common with such a [Soviet socialistic] society, primarily because private ownership of factories, plants, lands, banks, means of transportation, etc., remain untouched there, and, therefore, capitalism in Germany and Italy…” quote by Joseph Stalin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/411/joseph-stalin-1734_capitalism_neither-italian-fascism-nor-german-natio_1430.jpg)
