An individual, in promoting his own interest, may injure…
“An individual, in promoting his own interest, may injure the public interest; a nation, in promoting the general welfare, may check the interest of a part of its members.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Notes that individual self‑interest can harm the public, while governments may limit individual interests for collective welfare.
In simple terms: Personal gain may conflict with public good; governments mediate.
Key Takeaway
Balance personal ambition with societal responsibility.
Themes
political economy
public interest
individual vs collective
Mood
reflective
balanced
Type
philosophical
policy-oriented
When to use this quote
- legislation
- corporate regulation
- community projects
- public health initiatives
Key Concepts
social contract
government intervention
economic policy
Questions to Reflect On
- When should the state intervene in private interests?
- How can societies protect both individual rights and the common good?
A Different Perspective
Government actions can infringe on personal freedoms.