Burden Quote by John James Cowperthwaite
“I am also, I must confess, a little sceptical of the theory that we have a right, if we could, to pass on our capital burden to future generations. I remarked last year in this context that our predecessors had not passed any significant part of their burden on to us.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Hong Kong Economic Report, 1991
The speaker doubts that future generations should inherit our financial obligations, arguing past generations left little burden for us.
In simple terms: Skeptical about passing debt to future generations.
Key Takeaway
Question the fairness of intergenerational debt.
Themes
economics
responsibility
future generations
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
philosophical
policy
reflective
When to use this quote
- policy making
- budget planning
- inheritance law
- public debate
Key Concepts
intergenerational equity
public finance
moral hazard
Questions to Reflect On
- Should we prioritize current needs over future costs?
- How can societies balance present welfare with future debt?
A Different Perspective
Future obligations may be unavoidable due to long‑term contracts and climate commitments.
