Marxian Socialism must always remain a portent to the historians of Opinion - how a doctrine so illogical and so dull can have exercised so powerful and enduring an influence over the minds of men, and, through them, the events of history.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Keynes argues that Marxian Socialism is a historical puzzle because its perceived logical flaws contrast with its lasting impact on human thought and historical events.
- In plain terms
- It is strange how a flawed idea could change history so much.
- What can you take from it?
- Ideas do not need to be logically perfect to shape reality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do flawed ideas sometimes succeed?
- How do we measure an idea's influence?
Another view
The quote assumes the doctrine is illogical and dull without proof.
More from John Maynard Keynes
I do not know which makes a man more conservative - to know nothing but the present, or nothing but the past.
Permalink to quote #41 For my part I think that capitalism, wisely managed, can probably be made more efficient for attaining economic ends than any alternative system yet in sight, …
Permalink to quote #43 A study of the history of opinion is a necessary preliminary to the emancipation of the mind.
Permalink to quote #40
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