Skip to content

Addresses Quote by Ludwig von Mises

“Liberalism and capitalism address themselves to the cool, well-balanced mind. They proceed by strict logic, eliminating any appeal to the emotions. Socialism, on the contrary, works on the emotions, tries to violate logical considerations by rousing a sense of personal interest and to stifle the…” quote by Ludwig von Mises
Download Open image
“Liberalism and capitalism address themselves to the cool, well-balanced mind. They proceed by strict logic, eliminating any appeal to the emotions. Socialism, on the contrary, works on the emotions, tries to violate logical considerations by rousing a sense of personal interest and to stifle the voice of reason by awakening primitive instincts.”

Ludwig von Mises

About This Quote

Source Essay: Human Action, 1949

Liberalism relies on logic and balanced reasoning, while socialism appeals to emotions and primal instincts, challenging rational discourse.

In simple terms: Liberalism uses logic; socialism uses emotion.

Key Takeaway

Beware of emotional manipulation in politics.

Themes

politics logic emotion ideology

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • public persuasion
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

rationalism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should emotion guide policy?
  • Can logic alone address human needs?
A Different Perspective

Emotions also play a vital role in moral decisions.

2.5 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Ludwig von Mises

Explore all 637 Ludwig von Mises quotes

More Addresses quotes

Browse all 1,095 Addresses quotes