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The journalists think that they cannot say too much in…

“The journalists think that they cannot say too much in favor of such "improvements" in husbandry; it is a safe theme, like piety;but as for the beauty of one of these "model farms," I would as lief see a patent churn and a man turning it. They are, commonly, places merely where somebody is making…” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“The journalists think that they cannot say too much in favor of such "improvements" in husbandry; it is a safe theme, like piety;but as for the beauty of one of these "model farms," I would as lief see a patent churn and a man turning it. They are, commonly, places merely where somebody is making money, it may be counterfeiting.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

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

He critiques superficial improvements in agriculture that prioritize profit over authenticity, likening them to empty piety.

In simple terms: Superficial farm improvements hide true purpose.

Key Takeaway

Seek genuine purpose over profit.

Themes

agriculture authenticity profit critique

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • farm management
  • policy making
  • consumer choices

Key Concepts

industrialization ethical farming greenwashing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we differentiate genuine improvement from profit‑driven façade?
  • What values should guide agricultural innovation?
A Different Perspective

Profit motives can mask ethical concerns.

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