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I am deeply convinced that any permanent, regular…

“I am deeply convinced that any permanent, regular administrative system whose aim is to provide for the needs of the poor will breed more miseries than it can cure, will deprave the population that it wants to help and comfort, will dry up the sources of savings, will stop the accumulation of…” quote by Alexis de Tocqueville
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“I am deeply convinced that any permanent, regular administrative system whose aim is to provide for the needs of the poor will breed more miseries than it can cure, will deprave the population that it wants to help and comfort, will dry up the sources of savings, will stop the accumulation of capital, will retard the development of trade, and will benumb human industry.”

Alexis de Tocqueville

About This Quote

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

Permanent welfare systems can unintentionally create dependency, stifle economic growth, and harm those they aim to help

In simple terms: Over‑reliance on aid can worsen poverty

Key Takeaway

Design aid that empowers rather than creates dependency

Themes

economics politics social welfare

Mood

analytical concerned

Type

political economic

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • economic development
  • social programs

Key Concepts

dependency theory capital accumulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent welfare from becoming counterproductive?
  • How can aid foster self‑sufficiency?
A Different Perspective

Implementation may be politically difficult

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