Can anything be imagined more abhorrent to every sentiment…
“Can anything be imagined more abhorrent to every sentiment of generosity and justice, than the law which arms the rich with the legal right to fix, by assize, the wages of the poor? If this is not slavery, we have forgotten its definition. Strike the right of associating for the sale of labor from the privileges of a freeman, and you may as well bind him to a master, or ascribe him to the soil.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The law that lets the wealthy control wages of the poor is morally abhorrent, equating to slavery.
In simple terms: Legal control of wages is like slavery.
Key Takeaway
Challenge unjust labor laws.
Themes
justice
economics
power
freedom
Mood
indignant
determined
Type
political
activist
When to use this quote
- workers' rights protests
- policy reform
- union organizing
- public advocacy
Key Concepts
property rights
class exploitation
legal ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does wage control affect societal fairness?
- What can individuals do to oppose such laws?
A Different Perspective
Legal reforms may be blocked by entrenched interests.