Agency Quote by Mariana Mazzucato
“I often use the iPhone as an example of how governments shape markets, because what makes the iPhone ‘smart’ and not stupid is what you can do with it. And yes, everything you can do with an iPhone was government-funded. From the Internet that allows you to surf the Web, to GPS that lets you use Google Maps, to touch screen display and even the SIRI voice activated system - all of these things were funded by Uncle Sam through the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), NASA, the Navy, and even the CIA!”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast on Innovation Policy, 2023
Government funding underpins many modern technologies, shaping markets by providing foundational research and development.
In simple terms: Public investment drives tech progress.
Key Takeaway
Support and recognize public R&D contributions.
Themes
innovation
government
technology
market shaping
Mood
analytical
optimistic
Type
informational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- policy making
- startup strategy
- education
- public advocacy
Key Concepts
public policy
economics
technology diffusion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can private sector collaborate with public R&D?
- What policies best balance innovation and competition?
A Different Perspective
Relying on government can stifle private initiative if over‑dependent.
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
