2010 Quote by Paul Krugman
““And that's just the beginning. More and more, conventional wisdom says that the responsible thing is to make the unemployed suffer. And while the benefits from inflicting pain are an illusion, the pain itself will be all too real.””
About This Quote
The passage argues that blaming the unemployed is a false narrative; the supposed benefits are illusory, while the real pain is tangible.
In simple terms: Blaming the jobless is a harmful myth that causes real suffering.
Key Takeaway
Question and challenge narratives that scapegoat the unemployed.
Themes
economics
politics
ethics
social justice
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- media analysis
- public discourse
- labor markets
- social welfare
Key Concepts
scapegoating
illusion
pain perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies support the unemployed without creating false narratives?
- What evidence counters the claim of “responsible” suffering?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook complexities of economic policy and individual responsibility.
![“[W]hat possible purpose does this lashing-out serve? Will activists be shamed into recovering their previous enthusiasm? Will Republicans stop their vicious attacks because Obama is lashing out to his left? It was pure self-indulgence; even if he feels aggrieved, he has to judge his words by their…” quote by Paul Krugman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/60f/paul-krugman-2255_2010_w-hat-possible-purpose-does-this-lashing_2077342.jpg)
