The hidden hand of the market will never work without a hidden fist.

Meaning of the quote

The quote means that the free market economy, where people and businesses can make their own choices, can't work properly without the government using its power to help and protect it. The "hidden hand" represents the free market, while the "hidden fist" represents the government's influence and control behind the scenes. This suggests that while the free market is important, it needs the support and oversight of the government to function effectively.

About Thomas Friedman

Thomas Friedman is a renowned American political commentator and Pulitzer Prize-winning author who has written extensively on global affairs, trade, the Middle East, and environmental issues. He began his career as a reporter and has been a weekly columnist for The New York Times for many years.

More about the author

More quotes from Thomas Friedman

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