Demand Quote by Ludwig von Mises
““It is not in the power of governments to increase the supply of one commodity without a corresponding restriction in the supply of other commodities more urgently demanded by consumers. The authority may reduce the price of one commodity only by raising the prices of others.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Human Action, 1949
Government attempts to raise one commodity’s supply inevitably restrict others, affecting consumer demand.
In simple terms: Increasing one supply cuts another, hurting consumer needs.
Key Takeaway
Consider trade‑offs in policy decisions.
Themes
economics
government policy
resource allocation
scarcity
trade‑offs
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
economic
policy
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- market regulation
- price setting
- resource management
Key Concepts
supply‑demand theory
opportunity cost
Questions to Reflect On
- What unintended consequences can arise from price controls?
- How can policymakers balance competing commodity needs?
A Different Perspective
Assumes perfect government control, which may be unrealistic.
