Martin Luther King: Money Corrupts

Posted by admin on Monday, January 20, 2020

Martin Luther King, Jr. Money Quote saying we must put money to its highest and best uses rather than allowing it to rise to the level of something we worship. Martin Luther King, Jr. said:
 

 

“Money in its proper place is a worthwhile and necessary instrument for a well-rounded life, but when it is projected to the status of a god it becomes a power that corrupts and an instrument of exploitation” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

 

In this quote, Martin Luther King Jr. is acknowledging that money has its place and can be useful when kept in the proper perspective. He recognizes that financial resources, to a degree, are valid and even necessary instruments for living a full life with basic security and opportunities.

However, King argues that elevating money to the level of supreme importance, as if it were a “god” to be worshipped, inevitably corrupts people and society. When amassing wealth becomes the primary goal and measure of worth, it tends to promote exploitation and harm relationships.

King’s view is that money is most constructive when seen as a tool rather than an idol, and its pursuit does not override ethics, compassion or more uplifting life purposes. Overall, he aims to caution against an unhealthy over-emphasis on financial gain as a path to fulfillment or success.

Birthday: January 15, 1929 – Death: April 4, 1968