Corporations Quote by Wendell Berry
““For the sake of “job creation,” in Kentucky, and in other backward states, we have lavished public money on corporations that come in and stay only so long as they can exploit people here more cheaply than elsewhere. The general purpose of the present economy is to exploit, not to foster or conserve. (from 'Compromise, Hell!' published in the November/December 2004 issue of ORION magazine)””
About This Quote
Source Magazine: ORION, November/December 2004, “Compromise, Hell!”
Critiques public subsidies that favor corporations exploiting cheap labor over genuine job creation and community welfare.
In simple terms: Public money often benefits exploitative firms, not local people.
Key Takeaway
Demand accountable, community‑focused economic policies.
Themes
economics
justice
politics
labor
community development
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- local government budgeting
- community advocacy
- fair trade initiatives
- political campaigning
Key Concepts
exploitation
public policy
regional inequality
corporate responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we redesign incentives to prioritize local well‑being?
- What alternatives exist to corporate‑driven growth?
A Different Perspective
May overlook successful models of sustainable, locally owned enterprises.
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