Life Quote by Michael Hudson
““A return to classical bank policy would deem loans fraudulent and annul debts when creditors do not lend with any reasonable calculation of how the debt can be paid in the normal course of economic life. Loans made without such a calculation should be considered predatory. The natural check on such behavior is to permit mortgage debtors to walk away from their homes, free of the debts attached to them, letting title revert to the banks that over-lent.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “Killing the Host” by Michael Hudson, 2015
Predatory lending lacks realistic repayment calculations, harming borrowers; allowing debtors to abandon homes can curb excesses.
In simple terms: Unrealistic loans hurt borrowers; letting them walk away can limit abuse.
Key Takeaway
Support policies that prevent predatory loans.
Themes
finance
ethics
housing
policy
debt
predation
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
economic
policy
When to use this quote
- mortgage lending
- consumer protection
- banking regulation
Key Concepts
economic justice
risk assessment
credit regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can balance borrower protection with credit access?
- How do we define “reasonable” repayment terms?
A Different Perspective
Such reforms may reduce credit availability for low‑risk borrowers.
