Green recorded these initial thoughts about government…
““Green recorded these initial thoughts about government: "Either the people will pay direct taxes, or they will pay none if they know it; and if they don't know when they pay taxes, it is quite time for the prudent, economical administration of government that they did. The Treasury should just supply the moderate wants of the administration of government; an overflowing treasury brings with it corruption and fraud. It has been the curse of nations, and, profiting by the experience of the past, it becomes the present to avoid the instruments of their overflow.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Government should limit taxation and treasury size to prevent corruption, advocating modest fiscal policy and prudent administration.
In simple terms: Excessive treasury leads to corruption; keep government modest.
Key Takeaway
Support modest fiscal policies to reduce corruption.
Themes
government
economics
taxation
corruption
fiscal policy
Mood
analytical
concerned
objective
Type
Government:1
Management:0
Politics:0
Taxation:1
Taxes:1
Treasury:1
Overflowing Treasury:0
Thoughts Government:0
Treasury Brings:0
Treasury Just:0
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- budget reviews
- public debates
Key Concepts
budget restraint
public finance
ethical administration
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the risks of too small a treasury?
- How can transparency reduce corruption?
A Different Perspective
Complex realities may require flexible taxation.