Roosevelt Quote by Timothy Egan
““There is not in the world a more ignoble character than the mere money-getting American, insensitive to every duty, regardless of every principle, bent only on amassing a fortune," Roosevelt said just before he became president.””
About This Quote
Source Article: The New York Times, “The Rise of the Money‑Getting American”, 2015
Critique of materialism, portraying the relentless pursuit of wealth as morally hollow and duty‑neglectful.
In simple terms: Greed can erode duty and principle.
Prioritize purpose over profit.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- business leadership
- public policy
- personal finance
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities accompany wealth?
- Can profit coexist with principle?
Wealth can also enable philanthropy and societal benefit.