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I think theoretically if a man is young and healthy…

“I think theoretically if a man is young and healthy society should not give him a basic income. He should not be given dole. He should not be eligible for welfare. If he can work and if there is work available, he should take his choice. If he wants to be a hermit or beggar, that's fine. If he…” quote by Pierre Trudeau
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“I think theoretically if a man is young and healthy society should not give him a basic income. He should not be given dole. He should not be eligible for welfare. If he can work and if there is work available, he should take his choice. If he wants to be a hermit or beggar, that's fine. If he wants to move with the sun and live off the land, that's fine. If he is in a society which has work for him I don't think he should theoretically be eligible for welfare.”

Pierre Trudeau

About This Quote

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

Young, healthy individuals should earn their living without state assistance if work is available.

In simple terms: Work should be earned, not given.

Key Takeaway

Encourage self‑reliance.

Themes

responsibility employment welfare individualism

Mood

reflective critical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • job seeking
  • career planning
  • rural living
  • alternative lifestyles
  • social safety nets

Key Concepts

social contract economic policy personal freedom

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we balance personal responsibility with societal support?
  • When is welfare a necessary safety net?
A Different Perspective

May overlook systemic barriers to employment.

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