Friday, November 24, 2006

"Friedman's most profound damage"


Within days after Friedman's death, sharp critiques have started appearing [see also Bhupinder's links to those that appeared immediately after his death]. Here's William Greider [via Political Theory Daily]:

This is what the memorials left out: the cruel quality of Friedman's obliviousness. Art Hilgart, a retired industrial economist, recalls hearing Friedman lecture in 1991 and recommend the destruction of Medicare, welfare, the postal system, Social Security and public education. The audience was dumbfounded.

Finally, a brave young woman asked what this would mean for poverty. "There is no poverty in America," Friedman instructed. A clear voice arose from the back of hall: "Bullshit!" The audience cheered wildly.

1 Comments:

  1. Anonymous said...

    MF: Goodbye and good riddance.