“No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions; he had money as well.”
- October 13, 1925 – April 8, 2013
- British
- Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Politician, “The Iron Lady”
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Quote
“No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions; he had money as well.”
Explanation
In this quote, Margaret Thatcher emphasizes the idea that compassion alone is not enough—effective help requires resources. By referencing the biblical story of the Good Samaritan, she highlights that while goodwill is essential, the ability to act on that goodwill depends on having the means to do so. The Samaritan was remembered not just for his kindness, but because he used his wealth to provide tangible aid, paying for the injured man’s care and lodging.
This statement reflects Thatcher’s broader economic and political philosophy. She believed that wealth creation is a moral good, because it enables individuals and societies to be generous, independent, and effective. For her, strong economies and responsible personal finances are not opposed to compassion—they are prerequisites for meaningful charity and social support. In this context, Thatcher saw enterprise and economic freedom not as greed, but as empowerment.
In modern terms, the quote continues to speak to the intersection of ethics and economics. Whether discussing philanthropy, government aid, or community support, Thatcher’s point remains relevant: intentions must be backed by capacity. Her words encourage a view of prosperity not as selfishness, but as a tool that, when responsibly earned and wisely used, enables real, impactful acts of kindness.
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