Industrious Quote by John Dickinson
“For as long as the products of our labor and the rewards of our care, can properly be called our own, so long it will be worth our while to be industrious and frugal. But if when we plow, sow, reap, gather and thresh for others, whose pleasure is to be the sole limitation how much they shall take, and how much they shall leave, why should we repeat the unprofitable toil?”
About This Quote
When we work for others who limit what we keep, labor becomes unprofitable, questioning why we repeat it.
In simple terms: Working for others who take most of our reward feels pointless.
Key Takeaway
Seek fair compensation or autonomy in work.
Themes
labor
fairness
economics
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- employment contracts
- co‑ops
- entrepreneurship
- fair trade agreements
Key Concepts
property rights
motivation
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What non‑material rewards do you value?
- How can you balance personal gain with community contribution?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook non‑material benefits of communal work.
