If men are discharged of reverence for ancient usage, they…
“If men are discharged of reverence for ancient usage, they will treat this world, almost certainly, as if it were their private property, to be consumed for their sensual gratification; and thus they will destroy in their lust for enjoyment the property of future generations, of their own contemporaries, and indeed their very own capital.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Disrespecting tradition leads to treating the world as personal property, harming present and future societies.
In simple terms: Ignoring tradition harms all generations.
Key Takeaway
Respect tradition to protect shared resources.
Themes
tradition
responsibility
intergenerational
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- environmental planning
- urban development
- family inheritance
Key Concepts
conservatism
ethical stewardship
Questions to Reflect On
- How does tradition shape your values?
- What responsibilities do you have to future generations?
A Different Perspective
May overlook benefits of innovation.