Choice Quote by John Kenneth Galbraith
“In the usual (though certainly not in every) public decision on economic policy, the choice is between courses that are almost equally good or equally bad. It is the narrowest decisions that are most ardently debated.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Affluent Society, 1958
Policy choices often appear similarly good or bad; the most contentious debates focus on marginal differences.
In simple terms: Small policy differences spark big debates.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the marginal nature of most policy disputes.
Themes
economics
policy
debate
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- legislative hearings
Key Concepts
public decision making
government legislation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we prioritize substantive policy impacts?
- What strategies reduce over‑debating minor details?
A Different Perspective
Focusing on marginal differences can distract from larger issues.
