Few can believe that suffering, especially by others, is in vain. Anything that is disagreeable must surely have beneficial economic effects.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Galbraith notes people believe suffering must have a purpose. He critiques the idea that disagreeable events yield economic benefits.
- In plain terms
- People assume suffering leads to good outcomes eventually.
- What can you take from it?
- Suffering is not always justified by economic progress.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does pain lead to gain?
- Is progress worth suffering?
Another view
Some crises do lead to necessary reforms.
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