Economic growth without social progress lets the great majority of the people remain in poverty, while a privileged few reap the benefits of rising abundance.
Interpretation
Economic growth must be accompanied by social progress to benefit all, not just a privileged few.
In this quote, John F. Kennedy emphasizes that mere economic growth is insufficient if it does not lead to social improvement. It criticizes a system where wealth increases but the majority of the population remains impoverished while a small elite enjoys the benefits, highlighting the need for inclusive progress that addresses inequality and uplifts everyone in society.
In practice
This quote could be used in a political speech advocating for social reforms.
The great battleground for the defense and expansion of freedom today is the whole southern half of the globe... the lands of the rising peoples. Their revolution is the greatest in human history. They seek an end to injustice, tyranny and exploitation. More than an end, they seek a beginning.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
I am talking about genuine peace, the kind of peace that makes life on earth worth living, the kind that enables men and nations to grow and to hope and to build a better life for their children - not merely peace for Americans but peace for all men and women - not merely peace in our time but peace for all time.
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one's own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
I truly believe that capitalism was created to help people live better lives, but sadly over the years it has lost its way a bit. The short-term focus on profit has driven most businesses to forget about the important long-term role they have in taking care of people and the planet.
Many markets work best with little or no outside interference. But others - especially those subject to big 'externalities' - need a helping hand.
That's the world we live in: when it comes to economics, people have emotions; it's not like chemistry or physics.
Crony capitalism is much easier than competing in an open market. But it erodes our overall standard of living and stifles entrepreneurs by rewarding the politically favored rather than those who provide what consumers want.
Burdening people with debt is an old deal not a new deal.
The forgotten man at the bottom of the economic pyramid.
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