I would not be opposed to devising a new system of pensions, in which one part was based on collective provision, but which also gave incentives for people to take out an additional, personal plan.

The problem with a purely collective system is not only that it requires economic growth, and the right sort of demographic trends, but that it prevents people thinking about their futures in a responsible way.

The European model is in danger if we obliterate the principle of personal responsibility.

The European model is, first, a social and economic system founded on the role of the market, for no computer in the world can process information better than the market.

Fundamentally, American society is composed of individuals who don't go out of their way to do each other favours.

My presidential victory, if it had happened, would have been artificial in relation to the Socialist party. It may be that on my deathbed, I will come to regret my decision, but for the moment, I live at peace with it.