Attention Quote by Paul Samuelson
“An American economist of two generations ago, H. J. Davenport, who was the best friend Thorstein Veblen ever had (Veblen actually lived for a time in Davenport's coal cellar) once said: "There is no reason why theoretical economics should be a monopoly of the reactionaries." All my life I have tried to take this warning to heart, and I dare call it to your favorable attention.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Economic Commentary, 1960s
The quote argues that economics should be open to new ideas, not controlled by conservative thinkers.
In simple terms: Economics must stay open to fresh perspectives.
Encourage diverse viewpoints in economics.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- education reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure economics remains inclusive?
- What barriers keep new ideas out?
Conservatism may resist change, limiting progress.