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Disaster Quote by John Kenneth Galbraith

“Perhaps never before or since have so many people taken the measure of economic prospects and found them so favorable as in the two days following the Thursday [24th October 1929] disaster.” quote by John Kenneth Galbraith
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“Perhaps never before or since have so many people taken the measure of economic prospects and found them so favorable as in the two days following the Thursday [24th October 1929] disaster.”

John Kenneth Galbraith

About This Quote

Source Speech: Economic Outlook, October 1929

After the 1929 crash, many people became unusually optimistic about the economy, a paradoxical reaction.

In simple terms: People felt hopeful after a disaster.

Key Takeaway

Question optimism after crises.

Themes

economics psychology optimism

Mood

analytical critical

Type

economic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • investment decisions
  • policy making
  • public morale

Key Concepts

behavioral economics market sentiment

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do crises trigger optimism?
  • What are the dangers of premature confidence?
A Different Perspective

Optimism may ignore underlying risks.

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