Accurate Quote by John Steele Gordon
“Intellectuals love Jefferson and hate markets, and intellectuals write most of the books. Intellectuals often think that they should, for the benefit of mankind, act as fiduciaries for the clods who don't have to be intellectuals, and I suspect that has to do with [why historians love Jefferson and not Hamilton, even though Hamilton's vision of America's commercial future was vastly more accurate than Jefferson's].”
About This Quote
Intellectuals favor Jefferson's agrarian ideal while dismissing market-driven progress, reflecting a bias toward romanticized simplicity over pragmatic commerce.
In simple terms: Intellectuals prefer Jefferson over markets.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about intellectual bias.
Themes
bias
economics
history
politics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
essay
commentary
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- policy analysis
- public debate
- education
- media commentary
Key Concepts
philosophy
political economy
historical narrative
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you value romantic ideals over practical outcomes?
- How does bias shape historical narratives?
A Different Perspective
Intellectuals may overlook practical benefits of market systems.
![“He [Groucho's father] had absolutely no training, and if you had ever seen one of his suits, you'd realize what an accurate statement that is. You see, Pop never used a tape measure. He didn't believe in it. He said he could just look at a man and tell hi.” quote by Groucho Marx](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/02f/groucho-marx-788_accurate_he-groucho-s-father-had-absolutely-no-tr_22161.jpg)
