Investing Quote by Tony Judt
““Whatever their other differences, French Gaullists, Christian Democrats and Socialists shared a common faith in the activist state, economic planning and large-scale public investment. Much the same was true of the consensus that dominated policy-making in Scandinavia, the Benelux countries, Austria and even ideologically-riven Italy.””
About This Quote
The quote observes that despite ideological splits, post‑war European parties converged on a belief in a strong, interventionist state that directs the economy through planning and major public works.
In simple terms: Cross‑ideological consensus on state‑led economic development.
State intervention unified diverse political groups.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- post‑war reconstruction
- building welfare states
- addressing economic crises
- regional policy coordination
- national development strategies
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- designing infrastructure projects
- formulating macro‑economic policy
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms enable parties with differing ideologies to cooperate on economic policy?
- How does the belief in an activist state shape long‑term societal outcomes?