For I am convinced, that the authors of this law would…
“For I am convinced, that the authors of this law would never obtain an act to raise so trifling a sum as it must do, had they not intended by it to establish a precedent for future use. To console ourselves with the smallness of the duties, is a walk deliberately into a snare that is set for us...In short, if they have a right to levy a tax one penny upon us, they have a right to level a million upon us: for where does the right stop? At any given number of pence, shillings or pounds?...'There is nothing which we can call our own' or, to use the words of Mr. Locke, 'what property have we in that, which another may, by right, take, when he pleases, to himself?'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage warns that granting even minimal taxation powers creates a slippery slope, enabling ever‑greater exactions and eroding personal property rights.
In simple terms: Small taxes lead to larger ones, threatening ownership.
Key Takeaway
Unchecked authority expands fiscal demands.
Themes
taxation
property rights
government overreach
slippery slope
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- debates on tax reforms
- public reaction to new fees
- legislative drafting of fiscal policy
Key Concepts
principle of incremental erosion
social contract theory
Practical Applications
- advocate for clear limits on tax authority
- educate citizens on incremental rights encroachments
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance necessary revenue with protecting property rights?
- What safeguards prevent tax creep?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that modest taxes fund essential public services, and not all incremental taxes lead to abuse.