Affinity Quote by Julian Sanchez
“Market bashers ... might understand the claim that in some particular field, markets required no intervention--though they'd be skeptical--but the notion that, on general principle, complex systems ran themselves just fine without benign intervention seemed like it could only be the product of a quasi-religious faith. ... Of course, this gets things almost precisely backwards. It is the idea that all order must be explained by a functioning mind at the helm, not its denial, that has the closet affinity to the religious instinct.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Market Intervention Critique, 2020
The quote argues that believing complex systems self‑regulate without any oversight is a quasi‑religious faith, and that the real religious‑like belief is that order requires a guiding mind.
In simple terms: Thinking systems need a controlling mind is a faith, not evidence.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about self‑regulation.
Themes
complexity
belief
regulation
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy design
- economic forecasting
- organizational management
- environmental regulation
Key Concepts
systems theory
philosophy of science
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you see evidence of self‑regulation in any sector?
- How does belief in a guiding mind affect policy?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all markets are equally complex, ignoring domain‑specific dynamics.
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