And whereas many men, by accident unevitable, become…
“And whereas many men, by accident unevitable, become unable to maintain themselves by their labour; they ought not to be left to the Charity of private persons; but to be provided for, (as far-forth as the necessities of Nature require,) by the Lawes of the Common-wealth. For as it is Unchariablenesse in any man, to neglect the impotent; so it is in the Soveraign of a Common-wealth, to expose them to the hazard of such uncertain Charity.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The state must protect the vulnerable, as neglecting them endangers societal stability.
In simple terms: Society must care for its weakest members.
Ensure social safety nets.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy design
- community support programs
- public debates
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance individual liberty with collective care?
- What mechanisms best protect the vulnerable?
Implementation can be politically contentious.