Skip to content

Internet Quote by Paul Samuelson

“Sooner or later the Internet will become profitable. It's an old story played before by canals, railroads and automobiles.” quote by Paul Samuelson
Download Open image
“Sooner or later the Internet will become profitable. It's an old story played before by canals, railroads and automobiles.”

Paul Samuelson

About This Quote

Source Essay: Economic Outlook, 1970s

The Internet will follow historic profit cycles of past transport and communication tech.

In simple terms: New tech repeats old profit patterns.

Key Takeaway

Expect profit after adoption.

Themes

technology economics history

Mood

analytical optimistic

Type

economic predictive

When to use this quote

  • online services
  • e‑commerce
  • media platforms
  • logistics

Key Concepts

network effects innovation diffusion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What parallels exist with railroads?
  • How does regulation shape profit?
A Different Perspective

Profit may be delayed by regulation.

3.5 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Paul Samuelson

Explore all 75 Paul Samuelson quotes

More Internet quotes

Browse all 7,617 Internet quotes