Skip to content

Charity Quote by Laurence Sterne

“Heaven be their resource who have no other but the charity of the world, the stock of which, I fear, is no way sufficient for the many great claims which are hourly made upon it.” quote by Laurence Sterne
Download Open image
“Heaven be their resource who have no other but the charity of the world, the stock of which, I fear, is no way sufficient for the many great claims which are hourly made upon it.”

Laurence Sterne

About This Quote

Source Novel: Tristram Shandy, 1759

Humanity cannot rely solely on charity to meet endless demands; resources are limited and needs keep growing.

In simple terms: Charity alone can't satisfy ever‑increasing needs.

Key Takeaway

Seek sustainable solutions beyond mere giving.

Themes

charity resource scarcity human need limitations sustainability

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • nonprofit planning
  • personal budgeting
  • community support

Key Concepts

economics ethics social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance generosity with realistic resource limits?
  • What structures can reduce reliance on endless charity?
A Different Perspective

Charity may be insufficient without systemic change.

3.7 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Laurence Sterne

Explore all 244 Laurence Sterne quotes

More Charity quotes

Browse all 2,477 Charity quotes