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I am also, I must confess, a little sceptical of the…

“I am also, I must confess, a little sceptical of the theory that we have a right, if we could, to pass on our capital burden to future generations. I remarked last year in this context that our predecessors had not passed any significant part of their burden on to us.” quote by John James Cowperthwaite
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“I am also, I must confess, a little sceptical of the theory that we have a right, if we could, to pass on our capital burden to future generations. I remarked last year in this context that our predecessors had not passed any significant part of their burden on to us.”

John James Cowperthwaite

About This Quote

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

The speaker doubts that future generations should inherit our financial obligations, arguing past generations left little burden for us.

In simple terms: Skeptical about passing debt to future generations.

Key Takeaway

Question the fairness of intergenerational debt.

Themes

economics responsibility future generations

Mood

thoughtful concerned

Type

philosophical policy reflective

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • budget planning
  • inheritance law
  • public debate

Key Concepts

intergenerational equity public finance moral hazard

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should we prioritize current needs over future costs?
  • How can societies balance present welfare with future debt?
A Different Perspective

Future obligations may be unavoidable due to long‑term contracts and climate commitments.

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