We have feudal governments in a commercial age. It would…
“We have feudal governments in a commercial age. It would be but an easy extension of our commercial system, to pay a private emperor a fee for services, as we pay an architect, an engineer, or a lawyer. If any man has talent for righting wrong, for administering difficult affairs, for counselling poor farmers how to turn their estates to good husbandry, for combining a hundred private enterprises to a general benefit, let him in the county- town, or in Court-street, put up his sign-board, Mr. Smith, Governor, Mr. Johnson, Working king.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society could replace traditional rulers with skilled private individuals serving public needs.
In simple terms: Private expertise could govern.
Key Takeaway
Empower capable citizens in governance.
Themes
governance
talent
private sector
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- community projects
- local councils
- non‑profits
Key Concepts
political theory
public administration
Questions to Reflect On
- Who should be trusted with public power?
- How to balance profit and public good?
A Different Perspective
Power can be abused without checks.