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Contribution Quote by Milton Friedman

“Inflation is always and everywhere a monetary phenomenon in the sense that it is and can be produced only by a more rapid increase in the quantity of money than in output... A steady rate of monetary growth at a moderate level can provide a framework under which a country can have little inflation…” quote by Milton Friedman
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“Inflation is always and everywhere a monetary phenomenon in the sense that it is and can be produced only by a more rapid increase in the quantity of money than in output... A steady rate of monetary growth at a moderate level can provide a framework under which a country can have little inflation and much growth. It will not produce perfect stability; it will not produce heaven on earth; but it can make an important contribution to a stable economic society.”

Milton Friedman

About This Quote

Source Book: Capitalism and Freedom, 1962

Inflation occurs when money grows faster than output; moderate monetary growth supports low inflation and growth.

In simple terms: Too much money vs. goods causes inflation; steady growth helps stability.

Key Takeaway

Maintain balanced monetary growth.

Themes

economics inflation monetary policy

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

economic policy

When to use this quote

  • government spending
  • central banking
  • global trade
  • financial crises

Key Concepts

price stability economic growth policy design

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can policymakers balance growth and price stability?
  • What limits exist on controlling inflation?
A Different Perspective

Monetary policy cannot eliminate all economic shocks.

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