There is but one means available to improve the material conditions of mankind: to accelerate the growth of capital accumulated as against the growth in population. The greater the amount of capital invested per head of the worker, the more and better goods can be produced and consumed. This is what capitalism, the much abused profit system, has brought about and brings about daily anew. Yet, most present-day governments and political parties are eager to destroy this system.

Summary

This quote argues that the key to improving the material conditions of humanity is to increase the accumulation of capital at a faster rate than the growth in population. By investing more capital per worker, the quote asserts that more and better goods can be produced and consumed. It praises capitalism for its ability to bring about these improvements consistently. However, the quote criticizes governments and political parties, asserting that they tend to be willing to destroy the capitalist system despite its positive impact on material well-being.

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