The idea of self-denial for the sake of posterity, of…
““The idea of self-denial for the sake of posterity, of practicing present economy for the sake of debtors yet unborn, of planting forests that our descendants may live under their shade … never I suppose, efficiently takes place among publicly recognized motives of exertion. Yet these are not the less our duties; nor is our part fitly sustained upon the earth, unless the range of our intended and deliberate usefulness include, not only the companions but the successors of our pilgrimage. God has lent us the earth for our life; it is a great entail. It belongs as much to those who are to come after us … as to us; we have no right, by anything that we do or neglect, to involve them in unnecessary penalties, or deprive them of benefits which it was in our power to bequeath.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
We must consider future generations in our actions, preserving resources and opportunities for them rather than exploiting the present.
In simple terms: Think about how today’s choices affect tomorrow’s people.
Key Takeaway
Act responsibly for future generations.
Themes
environmental stewardship
intergenerational ethics
responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- urban development
- resource management
- policy making
Key Concepts
sustainability
legacy planning
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies can protect future interests?
- How do we measure our impact on descendants?
A Different Perspective
Balancing present needs with future obligations can be politically and economically challenging.