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Now, legal plunder can be committed in an infinite number…

“Now, legal plunder can be committed in an infinite number of ways. Thus we have an infinite number of plans for organizing it: tariffs, protection, benefits, subsidies, encouragements, progressive taxation, public schools, guaranteed jobs, guaranteed profits, minimum wages, a right to relief, a…” quote by Frederic Bastiat
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“Now, legal plunder can be committed in an infinite number of ways. Thus we have an infinite number of plans for organizing it: tariffs, protection, benefits, subsidies, encouragements, progressive taxation, public schools, guaranteed jobs, guaranteed profits, minimum wages, a right to relief, a right to the tools of labor, free credit, and so on, and so on.”

Frederic Bastiat

About This Quote

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

The state can create endless financial burdens through various policies, leading to endless schemes to manage those burdens.

In simple terms: Government policies create endless financial burdens.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and limit burdensome policies.

Themes

economics policy taxation public finance government libertarianism

Mood

critical analytical skeptical

Type

political economic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • budget planning
  • tax reform
  • public welfare design
  • social program evaluation
  • political advocacy

Key Concepts

Fiscal burden public choice regulation redistributive policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies create the most hidden costs?
  • How can citizens hold governments accountable?
A Different Perspective

Complex issues require nuanced solutions, not just labeling as 'plunder'.

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