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Few enjoyments are given from the open and liberal hand of…

“Few enjoyments are given from the open and liberal hand of nature; but by art, labor and industry we can extract them in great abundance. Hence, the ideas of property become necessary in all civil society.” quote by David Hume
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“Few enjoyments are given from the open and liberal hand of nature; but by art, labor and industry we can extract them in great abundance. Hence, the ideas of property become necessary in all civil society.”

David Hume

About This Quote

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

Human nature offers limited pleasures freely; organized effort and ownership are needed to expand and protect them.

In simple terms: Nature gives little; work creates more.

Key Takeaway

Recognize property rights to manage resources.

Themes

property economics society labor nature

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • agricultural planning
  • urban development
  • intellectual property law
  • environmental conservation

Key Concepts

social contract resource allocation civilization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we balance private ownership with communal needs?
  • What limits should society place on resource extraction?
A Different Perspective

Abundance still depends on equitable distribution and ethical use.

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