Classic Quote by Robert Skidelsky, Baron Skidelsky
“You do just have to go back to moral philosophy and you've got to say, okay, there is greed, people do want more and more, but then what restrains them and what restrained them in the past was a view of life in which one's satisfaction wasn't the most important thing, that you just, you needed enough and you could say, "Enough is enough." Maybe religion will get you there, maybe just classic moral philosophy, but you have to have some of that, or else you're always on the gravy train.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Deficit Myth by Robert Skidelsky, 2010
Greed drives desire for more, but societal restraint historically came from a worldview valuing modesty over personal satisfaction.
In simple terms: Greed unchecked; restraint needed.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate modesty to curb excess.
Themes
ethics
economics
human nature
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal finance
- public policy
- education
- community building
Key Concepts
greed
moderation
social norms
Questions to Reflect On
- What values can replace religion in fostering moderation?
- How can societies embed modesty without coercion?
A Different Perspective
Relying solely on religion may not sustain restraint for all.
