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We cannot live without trade. A society can neither advance nor improve without excess of disposable income. This excess can only be amassed through the production of goods and services necessary or attractive to the mass. A financial system which allows this leads to inequality; one that does not leads to mass starvation.
David Mamet
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Trade is essential for societal advancement and wealth generation, but it can also create inequality.

In this quote, David Mamet emphasizes the fundamental role of trade in enabling society to progress and improve. He points out that the availability of disposable income, generated through the production of goods and services that appeal to people, is crucial for societal advancement, yet he also highlights the underlying tension between financial systems that can lead to inequality and those that may prevent widespread deprivation and starvation.

Themes

TradeSocietyEconomic GrowthInequalityWealth

In practice

Example use cases

During a lecture on economics, you might quote Mamet to discuss the importance of trade in societal development.

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Quote by David Mamet | QuoteProject