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“If we were left to ourselves, unfettered by legislative enactments, we should gradually withdraw our capital from the cultivation of such lands, and import the produce which is at present raised upon them.” quote by David Ricardo
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“If we were left to ourselves, unfettered by legislative enactments, we should gradually withdraw our capital from the cultivation of such lands, and import the produce which is at present raised upon them.”

David Ricardo

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Principles of Political Economy and Taxation, 1817

Advocates voluntary market withdrawal from harmful agriculture, preferring imported goods.

In simple terms: Avoid supporting harmful farming by buying elsewhere.

Key Takeaway

Choose ethical consumption.

Themes

economics ethics environmentalism

Mood

analytical critical

Type

theoretical policy

When to use this quote

  • consumer choices
  • investment decisions
  • policy advocacy

Key Concepts

free market sustainability trade policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What alternatives exist for ethical sourcing?
  • Can legislation accelerate change?
A Different Perspective

Market forces may not shift quickly enough to prevent damage.

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