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Capitalism Quote by Margaret Atwood

“Hope drives us to invent new fixes for old messes, which in turn create ever more dangerous messes. Hope elects the politician with the biggest empty promise; and as any stockbroker or lottery seller knows, most of us will take a slim hope over prudent and predictable frugality. Hope, like greed…” quote by Margaret Atwood
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“Hope drives us to invent new fixes for old messes, which in turn create ever more dangerous messes. Hope elects the politician with the biggest empty promise; and as any stockbroker or lottery seller knows, most of us will take a slim hope over prudent and predictable frugality. Hope, like greed, fuels the engine of capitalism.”

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

Hope motivates innovation but also breeds riskier problems and empty political promises, mirroring greed in capitalism.

In simple terms: Hope drives both creation and danger.

Key Takeaway

Balance optimism with caution.

Themes

innovation politics capitalism risk optimism

Mood

cautious critical reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • entrepreneurship
  • policy making
  • investment decisions
  • personal finance

Key Concepts

psychology economic incentives social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we channel hope responsibly?
  • When does hope become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Hope can lead to reckless choices if unchecked.

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