I work for a Government I despise for ends I think criminal.

In this quote, John Maynard Keynes, a renowned British economist, expresses his frustration with the policies of the government he was working for. Keynes, known for his influential work in macroeconomics, particularly his advocacy for government intervention in times of economic crisis, here indicates a sense of disillusionment. He acknowledges that while he may have been part of the government's decision-making process, he deeply disagreed with the ends or goals the government was pursuing. His use of the word "despise" suggests a profound moral or ideological opposition to the political actions taking place.

The reference to working for a government he despises, and for ends he considers "criminal," highlights Keynes' internal conflict. While he believed in using government intervention to stabilize economies and reduce unemployment, he may have felt that certain government policies, perhaps related to war efforts, economic exploitation, or oppressive measures, were morally wrong or harmful. The term "criminal" is likely hyperbolic, emphasizing his strong opposition to these policies, which he viewed as damaging or unjust.

This quote reflects Keynes' broader philosophical tension between his professional role as an economist and his personal beliefs. As an economist, Keynes believed in the government's responsibility to regulate and intervene in economic matters, especially during crises, but at times, he seemed to question whether the government's objectives aligned with his values. This contradiction shows the complexities of working within a political system whose goals may conflict with one's own ethical standards.

The origin of this quote lies in Keynes' personal letters, where he was candid about his dissatisfaction with the political leadership of his time. Despite his intellectual contributions to economic policy, he often struggled with the reality of how these ideas were implemented, especially when he believed that they served to perpetuate harmful or unjust systems.