The quote reflects the dark side of investment, particularly in situations where financial gain is tied to unfortunate events. In "The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine," Michael Lewis emphasizes the ethical dilemmas faced by financial professionals who prioritize profit over moral considerations. This perspective highlights how the finance industry can thrive even amidst crises, breeding a sense of discomfort and detachment from the real-world implications of their actions.

Lewis critiques the mentality of some investors who find opportunity in tragedy, revealing a fundamental conflict between making money and the human costs involved. The statement encapsulates the cold reality of the financial world, where the success of certain investments can often coincide with hardship for countless individuals, prompting readers to question the integrity of those who operate within it.