Meaning: The quote "The goose lays the golden egg. Payrolls make consumers." by George Humphrey, a lawyer and author, encapsulates the fundamental principle of economic prosperity and consumerism. The metaphor of the goose laying the golden egg has been used throughout history to illustrate the concept of a sustainable source of wealth or prosperity. In the context of this quote, the goose represents the economy, while the golden egg symbolizes the income or wealth generated by the economy. This income, in turn, fuels consumer spending and drives economic growth.

The first part of the quote, "The goose lays the golden egg," emphasizes the importance of nurturing and sustaining the source of wealth. In the context of the economy, this can be interpreted as the need to support and maintain the factors that contribute to economic growth and prosperity. This may include investment in infrastructure, innovation, education, and other drivers of economic productivity. Without a healthy and productive "goose," in this case, the economy, the generation of wealth and income would be compromised.

The second part of the quote, "Payrolls make consumers," underscores the relationship between employment and consumer spending. Payrolls, or the wages and salaries paid to workers, are a key driver of consumer purchasing power. When people are employed and receive income from their jobs, they have the means to participate in the economy as consumers. This, in turn, supports businesses, drives demand for goods and services, and ultimately sustains economic activity.

By linking these two concepts, George Humphrey highlights the interconnectedness of economic prosperity and consumerism. A healthy and productive economy, akin to the "goose laying the golden egg," is essential for generating the income and wealth that support consumer spending. In turn, consumer spending, fueled by payrolls and incomes, plays a crucial role in sustaining economic growth and prosperity.

The quote also serves as a reminder of the importance of balance and sustainability in economic systems. Just as a goose must be cared for and not overexploited to continue laying golden eggs, economies must be managed and nurtured to ensure ongoing prosperity. This includes considerations of equitable distribution of wealth, sustainable employment opportunities, and responsible economic policies.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes the role of individuals as both contributors to and beneficiaries of economic prosperity. As workers, individuals play a part in the generation of wealth through their labor, and as consumers, they drive economic activity through their spending. This dual role underscores the interdependence of individuals, businesses, and the broader economy in creating and sustaining prosperity.

In conclusion, George Humphrey's quote "The goose lays the golden egg. Payrolls make consumers." encapsulates the fundamental principles of economic sustainability, productivity, and consumerism. It underscores the importance of nurturing a productive economy as the source of wealth and income, while also highlighting the critical role of payrolls and consumer spending in driving economic growth. This timeless wisdom serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of economic systems and the pivotal role of individuals in sustaining prosperity.