Having always observed that public works are much less…
“Having always observed that public works are much less advantageously managed than the same are by private hands, I have thought it better for the public to go to market for whatever it wants which is to be found there; for there competition brings it down to the minimum value.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He argues that private ownership leads to competition, which lowers prices and improves efficiency compared to public management.
In simple terms: Private competition drives lower prices.
Key Takeaway
Support market competition.
Themes
economics
government
competition
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
political quote
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- business strategy
- consumer pricing
- government contracts
Key Concepts
capitalism
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- Can competition always ensure quality?
- When should government intervene?
A Different Perspective
Public services may need regulation for equity.