All is more or less proper to serve as a common measure…
“All is more or less proper to serve as a common measure, in proportion as it is more or less in general use, of a more similar quality, and more easy to be divided into aliquot parts. All is more or less applicable for the purpose of a general pledge of exchange, in proportion as it is less susceptible of decay or alteration in quantity or quality.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage argues that a common standard should be widely used, stable, and easily divisible to facilitate fair exchange of goods and services.
In simple terms: A stable, divisible standard helps fair trade.
Adopt consistent, reliable measures.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- market pricing
- currency design
- contract negotiations
- resource allocation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a stable measure influence market trust?
- When should flexibility override uniformity?
If the standard is too rigid, it may stifle innovation or adaptation.