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Economics Quote by Robert Farrar Capon

“Economy is not one of the necessary principles of the universe; it is one of the jokes which God indulges in precisely because he can afford it. If a man takes it seriously, however, he is doomed forever to a middle-income appreciation of the world. Indeed, only the very poor and the very rich are…” quote by Robert Farrar Capon
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““Economy is not one of the necessary principles of the universe; it is one of the jokes which God indulges in precisely because he can afford it. If a man takes it seriously, however, he is doomed forever to a middle-income appreciation of the world. Indeed, only the very poor and the very rich are safe from its idolatry. The poor, because while they must take it seriously, they cannot possibly believe in it as a good, and the rich, because, though they may see it as a good, they cannot possibly take it seriously. For the one it is a bad joke, for the other a good one; but for both it is only part of the divine ludicrousness of creation - of the sensus lusus which lies at the heart of the matter. And that is why all men should hasten to become very poor or very rich - or both at once, like St. Paul, who had nothing and yet possessed all things. The world was made in sport, for sports; economy is worth only a smile. There are more serious things to laugh at.””

Robert Farrar Capon

About This Quote

Source Book: The Gospel According to God, 1995

He satirically argues that economy is a trivial human construct, urging people to transcend material concerns and embrace spiritual freedom.

In simple terms: Economy is a joke; focus on spiritual wealth.

Key Takeaway

Seek spiritual over material wealth.

Themes

materialism spirituality humor

Mood

wry thoughtful

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • daily budgeting
  • career planning
  • political activism
  • philanthropy

Key Concepts

philosophy theology social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance material needs with spiritual growth?
  • What role does humor play in critiquing economics?
A Different Perspective

It may dismiss legitimate economic challenges faced by many.

4.8 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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