You talk about making this article cheaper by reducing its…
“You talk about making this article cheaper by reducing its price in the market from 8 d. to 6 d. But suppose, in so doing, you have rendered your country weaker against a foreign foe; suppose you have demoralized thousands of your fellow-countrymen, and have sown discontent between one class of society and another, your article is tolerably dear, I take it, after all.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Economic decisions that prioritize profit can weaken national security and social cohesion.
In simple terms: Profit over people harms society.
Key Takeaway
Balance profit with public good.
Themes
economics
national security
social stability
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
political
economic
When to use this quote
- budget cuts
- price reductions
- military funding
- public morale
Key Concepts
trade-offs
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect against harmful cost cuts?
- How to weigh economic benefits against security?
A Different Perspective
Short‑term gains may cause long‑term instability.