John Perkins Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The old paradigm of capitalism versus communism is over; we must now confront the real issue, which is capitalism versus community."

This quote suggests that the traditional ideological debate between capitalism (free-market system) and communism (socialist system) has lost relevance in today's global context. Instead, Perkins posits that we should focus on addressing the tension between profit-driven, individualistic capitalism, and community-oriented values, as these are the central issues shaping our society. Essentially, he is advocating for a shift towards a model of economic development that prioritizes communal welfare alongside individual success.

"Corporations are not citizens, but they have more rights than citizens."

This quote by John Perkins highlights the disproportionate influence corporations hold in contemporary society compared to individual citizens. The statement suggests that while corporations, which are entities created for profit, are granted extensive legal rights, human citizens often lack equivalent protection under the law, particularly in areas like environmental protection and worker's rights. This inequality underscores the need to reevaluate the relationship between corporate power and democratic governance to ensure a more equitable society.

"Every time a corporation makes a profit, it's people or the planet that pays."

This quote by John Perkins emphasizes the potential negative impact corporations can have on society and the environment in pursuit of profit. It suggests that when a corporation earns a profit, often this comes at the expense of either people (through exploitation, unsafe working conditions, or unjust practices) or the planet (by polluting resources, degrading ecosystems, or contributing to climate change). The quote serves as a call for greater corporate responsibility and ethical practices, emphasizing that business should not come at the cost of human well-being or the natural world.

"The global economy is fundamentally flawed because it ignores the true cost of goods and services."

This quote by John Perkins emphasizes that the current economic system fails to account for the real cost of producing goods and services, often externalizing them onto the environment, society, or future generations. The hidden costs, such as pollution, resource depletion, labor exploitation, and societal impacts, are not factored into market prices, leading to an unequal distribution of wealth and unsustainable practices. A more equitable and sustainable economy would acknowledge these true costs, fostering a fairer system for all.

"It is not our responsibilities as consumers to make ethical choices; it is the responsibility of corporations to operate ethically."

This quote by John Perkins emphasizes a shift in moral accountability from individuals (consumers) to corporations. He suggests that instead of consumers needing to make conscious, ethical decisions about their purchases, corporations should inherently operate with integrity. In other words, the onus is on businesses to behave ethically, ensuring fair labor practices, sustainable resources, and transparent operations, rather than expecting consumers to navigate complex ethical dilemmas in their purchasing decisions. The quote implies a need for corporations to prioritize societal well-being and responsibility over profit maximization, thereby promoting a more just and equitable global economy.