He who disdains the fall in infant mortality and the gradual disappearance of famines and plagues may cast the first stone upon the materialism of the economists.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Mises challenges critics of economics' materialism by pointing out tangible benefits like reduced infant mortality and elimination of famines.
- In plain terms
- Economists deserve credit for improving health and reducing famine.
- What can you take from it?
- Material progress is a valid measure of economic success.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is progress?
- Does materialism matter most?
Another view
Material progress doesn't capture all human values.
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