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Wherever indeed a right of property is infringed for the…

“Wherever indeed a right of property is infringed for the general good, if the nature of the case admits of compensation, it ought to be made; but if compensation be impracticable, that impracticability ought to be an obstacle to a clearly essential reform.” quote by Alexander Hamilton
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“Wherever indeed a right of property is infringed for the general good, if the nature of the case admits of compensation, it ought to be made; but if compensation be impracticable, that impracticability ought to be an obstacle to a clearly essential reform.”

Alexander Hamilton

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

When property rights are violated for public benefit, compensation should be provided; if impossible, it should block essential reforms.

In simple terms: Compensation is required for property loss, otherwise reforms stall.

Key Takeaway

Ensure fair compensation.

Themes

law property public good

Mood

analytical serious

Type

legal principle policy discussion

When to use this quote

  • urban development
  • infrastructure projects
  • expropriation

Key Concepts

justice economic policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to balance public need and private loss?
  • What alternatives exist when compensation fails?
A Different Perspective

Compensation may be politically difficult.

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