Amount Quote by Pierre Berton
“Will a guaranteed annual wage kill incentive among the poor? If a man is given a certain amount of security, won't he quit working? Exactly the same contention could be made about the sons of the wealthy who are left large fortunes. Yet the evidence suggests that, given economic freedom, people will generally choose to do that which interests them most. It is up to society to see that these interests are widened and that too requires investment.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public commentary on UBI, Canada, 1970s
Economic security does not eliminate ambition; people pursue interests when free, but society must broaden opportunities and invest.
In simple terms: Security alone isn’t enough; freedom drives effort.
Key Takeaway
Provide safety nets while expanding choices.
Themes
economics
motivation
social policy
equality
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
policy
philosophical
When to use this quote
- welfare reform
- job training programs
- community development
- entrepreneurship support
Key Concepts
basic income
human behavior
investment
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does security affect personal drive?
- What investments best expand meaningful opportunities?
A Different Perspective
May reduce incentive for those lacking purpose or ambition.
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