If investments in banks fall, it is a tragedy, and people say, 'What are we going to do?' but if people die of hunger, have nothing to eat or suffer from poor health, that's nothing.

In this quote, Pope Francis critiques the societal priorities that place greater emphasis on financial losses than on human suffering. He draws a stark contrast between the reaction to investments in banks falling, which is viewed as a tragedy, and the lack of urgency or concern when people die from hunger, have nothing to eat, or suffer from poor health. Pope Francis highlights the disparity in how society responds to economic issues versus humanitarian crises.

Pope Francis is pointing out the misplaced priorities in modern societies, where economic concerns, particularly those related to banks and financial systems, often receive immediate and intense attention, while basic human needs such as food, health, and welfare are often ignored or neglected. His words challenge the capitalistic mindset that prioritizes wealth and material assets over human life and dignity.

The quote reflects Pope Francis's long-standing advocacy for the poor and marginalized, as well as his criticism of economic systems that perpetuate inequality. He calls attention to the fact that human suffering should evoke the same, if not more, concern as economic losses. In his view, the well-being of individuals, especially the vulnerable, should take precedence over the preservation of financial systems.

Ultimately, the quote is a call to rethink values and to recognize that the true measure of a society’s success is not its wealth or financial stability, but its ability to care for and protect the most vulnerable members. Pope Francis encourages a more compassionate and human-centered approach to addressing global issues.