Book Quote by Benjamin Tucker
“It will probably surprise many who know nothing of Proudhon save his declaration that 'property is robbery' to learn that he was perhaps the most vigorous hater of Communism that ever lived on this planet. But the apparent inconsistency vanishes when you read his book and find that by property he means simply legally privileged wealth or the power of usury, and not at all the possession by the labourer of his products.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Anarchist Manifesto by Benjamin Tucker, 1881
Troudhon condemned property as a legal privilege that enables exploitation, not the laborer’s ownership of their product, revealing his anti‑communist stance.
In simple terms: Property = privileged wealth, not laborer’s goods.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how legal structures can create inequality.
Themes
property
inequality
political philosophy
economics
Mood
critical
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- labor rights debates
- economic policy analysis
- social justice activism
Key Concepts
privilege
usury
ownership
class conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- How do modern legal definitions of property affect social equity?
- Can wealth be redistributed without violating property rights?
A Different Perspective
His view may overlook communal benefits of shared resources.
