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Economic freedom Quote by Milton Friedman

“Economic freedom is an essential requisite for political freedom. By enabling people to cooperate with one another without coercion or central direction, it reduces the area over which political power is exercised. In addition, by dispersing power, the free market provides an offset to whatever…” quote by Milton Friedman
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““Economic freedom is an essential requisite for political freedom. By enabling people to cooperate with one another without coercion or central direction, it reduces the area over which political power is exercised. In addition, by dispersing power, the free market provides an offset to whatever concentration of political power may arise. The combination of economic and political power in the same hands is a sure recipe for tyranny.””

Milton Friedman

About This Quote

Source Book: Capitalism and Freedom, 1962

Economic freedom limits political power by dispersing authority, preventing tyranny when both are combined.

In simple terms: Free markets curb political tyranny.

Key Takeaway

Promote economic liberty.

Themes

freedom politics market tyranny

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • business regulation
  • civil society

Key Concepts

libertarianism decentralization power diffusion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does economic freedom protect political rights?
  • What safeguards prevent market abuses?
A Different Perspective

Assumes markets are always fair.

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