Politics Quote by Milton Friedman
““Is it really true that political self-interest is nobler somehow than economic self-interest? . . . And just tell me where in the world you find these angels who are going to organize society for us.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on Economic Policy, 1970s
Questions whether political motives are inherently nobler than economic ones and challenges the existence of altruistic organizers.
In simple terms: Political self-interest vs economic self-interest; doubt about altruistic planners.
Key Takeaway
Question motives and seek balanced views.
Themes
politics
ethics
self‑interest
society
Mood
skeptical
inquisitive
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Policy debates
- activism
- community organizing
- leadership
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
political economy
idealism
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports altruistic organization?
- How do incentives shape political vs economic actions?
A Different Perspective
Altruism may be idealized, but collective action can still be effective.
