James Taggart: Here's to my wife, Mrs. James Taggart. Love does, indeed, conquer all. Even social and economic barriers. You know, money cannot buy happiness. Truer words were never spoken. We're no longer chasing the almighty dollar. Our ideals are higher than profit. Instead of the aristocracy of money, we have...
Francisco d'Anconia: The aristocracy of pull. I mean, now, it's about influence. But you knew that already.
James Taggart: What I know is that you need to learn some manners.
Reception Guest #1: If you ever doubted that money was the root of all evil, there's your proof.
Francisco d'Anconia: So, you think that money is the root of all evil. Have you ever asked yourself "What's the root of money?" Money is a tool that allows us to trade with one another. Your goods for mine. Your efforts for mine. The keystone of civilization. Having money is not the measure of a man. What matters is how he got it. If he produced it by creating value, then his money is a token of honor.
James Taggart: Look who's talking about honor.
Francisco d'Anconia: But if he's taken it from those who produce, then there is no honor. Then you're simply a looter.
Reception Guest #2: Señor d'Anconia, we all know that money is made by the strong at the expense of the weak.
Francisco d'Anconia: What kind of strength are you talking about? The power to create value? Or the ability to manipulate, to extort money in back room deals, - to exercise pull?
James Taggart: All right... just leave.
Francisco d'Anconia: Hey. When money ceases to be the tool by which men deal with one another, then men become the tools of men. Blood, whips, chains or dollars. Take your choice. There is no other. And your time is running out.
