Children Quote by Margaret Atwood
“Money as such is, as Oscar Wilde said, perfectly useless. You can't eat it, drink it, shelter yourself from the cold with it, wear it, or make love with it unless deeply disturbed. In and of itself, it has no emotions, no mind, and no conscience. It doesn't put out flowers or have children, and it makes a lousy pet. It has meaning only when it circulates, and is exchanged for other things; and money doesn't do that for itself. People do that, using money as a symbolic token.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Oryx and Crake, 2003
Money lacks intrinsic value; its worth comes from the social exchanges and meanings we assign to it.
In simple terms: Money is only valuable when used.
Key Takeaway
Recognize money as a tool, not a goal.
Themes
economics
philosophy
society
value
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- budgeting
- charitable giving
- investment decisions
Key Concepts
symbolic exchange
materialism
human needs
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you measure success beyond wealth?
- What values should guide your financial choices?
A Different Perspective
Focusing solely on money can neglect human relationships and purpose.
