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Capitalism Quote by Noam Chomsky

“It [predatory capitalism] is incapable of meeting human needs that can be expressed only in collective terms, and its concept of competitive man who seeks only to maximize wealth and power, who subjects himself to market relationships, to exploitation and external authority, is antihuman and…” quote by Noam Chomsky
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““It [predatory capitalism] is incapable of meeting human needs that can be expressed only in collective terms, and its concept of competitive man who seeks only to maximize wealth and power, who subjects himself to market relationships, to exploitation and external authority, is antihuman and intolerable in the deepest sense.””

Noam Chomsky

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview on capitalism, 2015

Capitalism focused on competition and profit cannot satisfy needs that require collective action, making it fundamentally dehumanizing.

In simple terms: Competitive capitalism fails collective needs.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of market‑only solutions.

Themes

economics human rights collectivism

Mood

critical concerned

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy design
  • community organizing
  • labor negotiations
  • public health planning

Key Concepts

Market failure human dignity social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance market incentives with collective welfare?
  • What alternatives address both wealth and human dignity?
A Different Perspective

Ignores cooperation and shared responsibility.

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