I've lived a lot in communist countries and they're…
“I've lived a lot in communist countries and they're intensely interested in money. I think they are more interested in money than capitalists are. They're the most materialistic people in the world. What they're actually living for is material things. The irony of that is that in communist countries there isn't anything to buy.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: New York Times, 1972
The speaker observes that people in communist societies prioritize material wealth even though such societies lack consumer goods, highlighting a paradox of materialism without abundance.
In simple terms: Communist citizens value money despite scarcity.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the mismatch between desire and availability.
Themes
materialism
economics
paradox
societal values
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
observational
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- economic policy
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
consumer behavior
psychology of scarcity
ideological critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does scarcity shape desire?
- Can materialism exist without consumer goods?
A Different Perspective
The claim may overgeneralize and ignore variations across regions and individuals.