To my mind, governments are bound to provide against…
““To my mind, governments are bound to provide against unemployment so far as they may, and then to provide for the unemployed. It is very poor consolation to tell a man that when employed he has a right to a living wage, if at the same time he is starving for want of work. If, as Pope Leo says, the inherent dignity of man's nature entitles him to a living wage when he is at work, the same requirement of his nature should imperatively demand for him a decent sustenance when he is willing to undertake, but, through no fault of his own, is unable to find work. If the right to work and the right to support during unemployment were recognized, as I think they ought to be recognized, I promise you that governments and capitalists would try to find work for all. I know that people will say that I am playing fast and loose with property. Of course, I am putting upon the State, and upon society, duties which they are naturally reluctant to undertake" [Daniel Mannix, Archbishop of Melbourne, Catholic Times , March 18, 1918].””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Governments should guarantee both employment and sustenance for the unemployed, recognizing dignity beyond wages alone.
In simple terms: Governments must provide work and support for those without jobs.
Key Takeaway
Ensure safety nets and job creation together.
Themes
employment
social welfare
human dignity
economics
politics
Mood
concerned
determined
hopeful
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- social safety net design
- public debate
- labor market reforms
Key Concepts
social contract
right to work
state responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies fund universal job guarantees?
- What limits exist on state-provided sustenance?
A Different Perspective
Balancing property rights with welfare can be politically contentious.