There is perhaps, nothing more likely to disturb the…
“There is perhaps, nothing more likely to disturb the tranquillity of nations, than their being bound to mutual contributions for any common object that does not yield an equal and coincident benefit. For it is an observation as true, as it is trite, that there is nothing men differ so readily about as the payment of money.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Nations lose peace when they are forced into unequal, shared projects that don’t benefit all equally.
In simple terms: Unequal cooperation harms national tranquility.
Key Takeaway
Pursue fair, mutually beneficial collaborations.
Themes
politics
economics
cooperation
fairness
Mood
analytical
concerned
Type
political
economic
When to use this quote
- international treaties
- trade agreements
- joint ventures
- policy making
Key Concepts
public choice theory
collective action
game theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can nations ensure equal benefit in joint projects?
- What mechanisms protect against exploitation?
A Different Perspective
Equal benefit is hard to guarantee; power imbalances may persist.