Can do Quote by Milton Friedman
“There are severe limits to the good that the government can do for the economy, but there are almost no limits to the harm it can do.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Free to Economy, Milton Friedman, 1970
Government can help the economy only modestly, but can cause great damage if unchecked.
In simple terms: Government help is limited; harm can be large.
Key Takeaway
Limit government power to avoid harm.
Themes
government
economy
policy
risk
regulation
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
economic
When to use this quote
- budget decisions
- tax policy
- regulatory reform
- public spending
Key Concepts
public choice
externalities
state failure
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance necessary intervention with risk of harm?
- What safeguards reduce government‑induced damage?
A Different Perspective
Even limited help can be outweighed by unintended consequences.
