Art Quote by Hugh Brogan
““No, the art of government was to curb and guide men’s greedy appetites into useful courses, so that, as the Scottish economist Adam Smith proposed, private vice could be public gain. Hamilton””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Life of Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow, 2004
Hamilton argues that government should channel selfish desires into public benefit, turning private vice into collective gain.
In simple terms: Governments can redirect self‑interest for public good.
Key Takeaway
Design policies that align incentives.
Themes
politics
economics
ethics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
political
economic
When to use this quote
- legislation
- tax policy
- corporate regulation
Key Concepts
public choice theory
incentive design
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure redirected greed truly benefits society?
- What safeguards prevent abuse of such policies?
A Different Perspective
Assumes rational behavior and effective oversight.
