Skip to content

Economics Quote by Michael Spence

“Reforms aimed at increasing an economy's flexibility are always hard - and even more so at a time of weak growth - because they require eliminating protections for vested interests in the short term for the sake of greater long-term prosperity.” quote by Michael Spence
Download Open image
“Reforms aimed at increasing an economy's flexibility are always hard - and even more so at a time of weak growth - because they require eliminating protections for vested interests in the short term for the sake of greater long-term prosperity.”

Michael Spence

About This Quote

Source Book: The Economics of Flexibility by Michael Spence, 2012

Reforms that increase economic flexibility are tough, especially in weak growth, because they cut short‑term protections for long‑term gains.

In simple terms: Economic reforms are hard but needed for future prosperity.

Key Takeaway

Balance short‑term pain with long‑term benefit.

Themes

economics reform growth

Mood

strategic pragmatic

Type

policy analytical

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • business strategy
  • labor negotiations

Key Concepts

political economy public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What protections can be safely reduced?
  • How to mitigate short‑term hardship?
A Different Perspective

Reforms may face strong opposition from vested interests.

3.6 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Michael Spence

Explore all 36 Michael Spence quotes

More Economics quotes

Browse all 7,657 Economics quotes