Skip to content

Age Quote by Milton Friedman

“I have long been a critic of Social Security, basically because I believe that it is not the business of government to tell people what fraction of their incomes they should devote to providing for their own or someone else's old age.” quote by Milton Friedman
Download Open image
“I have long been a critic of Social Security, basically because I believe that it is not the business of government to tell people what fraction of their incomes they should devote to providing for their own or someone else's old age.”

Milton Friedman

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public Policy Remarks, 1974

The quote argues that retirement savings should be a personal decision, not mandated by the state.

In simple terms: Retirement savings are a personal choice.

Key Takeaway

Leave saving decisions to individuals.

Themes

individual liberty government role personal finance

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • personal budgeting
  • retirement planning
  • policy debate
  • financial education

Key Concepts

Libertarianism economic freedom

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should the government provide a safety net for the elderly?
  • How do private savings compare to public pensions?
A Different Perspective

Government programs can address market failures and protect vulnerable populations.

2.7 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Milton Friedman

Explore all 444 Milton Friedman quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,949 Age quotes