I don't feel the least humble before the vastness of the heavens

I don't feel the least humble before the vastness of the heavens

John Maynard Keynes was a renowned economist whose theories and ideas have had a lasting impact on the field of economics. He was known for his bold and innovative thinking, and his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. In this context, the statement "I don't feel the least humble before the vastness of the heavens" can be seen as a reflection of Keynes' confidence in his own abilities and ideas.

Keynes was not one to shy away from expressing his opinions or asserting his beliefs, even in the face of opposition. He was a strong advocate for government intervention in the economy, and believed that it was necessary to actively manage economic cycles in order to prevent or mitigate recessions and depressions. This was a radical departure from the prevailing laissez-faire economic policies of the time, and Keynes faced significant resistance from those who opposed his ideas.

In this context, the statement "I don't feel the least humble before the vastness of the heavens" can be interpreted as a declaration of Keynes' self-assurance and confidence in his own abilities. He was not intimidated by the enormity of the challenges he faced, whether they were economic crises or entrenched economic ideologies. Instead, he approached these challenges with a sense of purpose and determination, believing that he had the knowledge and insight necessary to address them effectively.

Keynes' confidence in his own abilities was not unfounded. His theories on macroeconomics, particularly his ideas on aggregate demand and the role of government in managing the economy, have had a profound impact on economic policy and practice. The Keynesian revolution that he sparked in the mid-20th century fundamentally changed the way that economists and policymakers thought about and approached economic issues.