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Axes Quote by John Kenneth Galbraith

“It's a rule worth having in mind. Income almost always flows along the same axis as power but in the opposite direction.” quote by John Kenneth Galbraith
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“It's a rule worth having in mind. Income almost always flows along the same axis as power but in the opposite direction.”

John Kenneth Galbraith

About This Quote

Source Book: The Affluent Society, John Kenneth Galbraith, 1958

Economic power and income tend to move oppositely; those with power often have less income and vice versa.

In simple terms: Power and money often go opposite ways.

Key Takeaway

Watch how authority can affect financial outcomes.

Themes

economics power inequality wealth distribution

Mood

analytical critical

Type

observational analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • business strategy
  • personal finance
  • social advocacy

Key Concepts

political economy social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this dynamic appear in your industry?
  • Can power be leveraged to change income patterns?
A Different Perspective

Power can be exercised without wealth, limiting the rule's universality.

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