Capitalism Quote by Steven Pinker
“'Capitalism' is a dirty word for many intellectuals, but there are a number of studies showing that open economies and free trade are negatively correlated with genocide and war.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker, 2011
Open economies and free trade tend to reduce the likelihood of large‑scale violence and genocide.
In simple terms: Free trade lowers war risk.
Key Takeaway
Support open markets to promote peace.
Themes
economics
peace
trade
human rights
Mood
analytical
optimistic
Type
research
informative
When to use this quote
- policy making
- international relations
- development aid
Key Concepts
political science
conflict studies
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms link trade to peace?
- Can trade alone prevent war?
A Different Perspective
Correlation does not prove causation; other factors also influence conflict.
![“Neither Italian fascism nor German national "socialism" have anything in common with such a [Soviet socialistic] society, primarily because private ownership of factories, plants, lands, banks, means of transportation, etc., remain untouched there, and, therefore, capitalism in Germany and Italy…” quote by Joseph Stalin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/411/joseph-stalin-1734_capitalism_neither-italian-fascism-nor-german-natio_1430.jpg)
