Conditions Quote by Frederic Bastiat
“Now since man is naturally inclined to avoid pain - and since labor is pain in itself - it follows that men will resort to plunder whenever plunder is easier than work. History shows this quite clearly. And under these conditions, neither religion nor morality can stop it. When, then, does plunder stop? It stops when it becomes more painful and more dangerous than labor.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Law, 1850
People avoid painful work, preferring easier plunder; morality and religion cannot stop it unless plunder becomes more costly than labor.
In simple terms: People choose easy theft over hard work unless it’s riskier.
Key Takeaway
Make honest work more rewarding than theft.
Themes
economics
morality
labor
crime
human nature
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
economic
When to use this quote
- policy design
- education
- employment programs
- community enforcement
- ethical training
Key Concepts
cost‑benefit analysis
social incentives
ethical limits
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies raise the cost of plunder?
- What incentives encourage honest labor?
A Different Perspective
Economic incentives can be overridden by desperation.
