Become Quote by Richard Stallman
“The reason that a good citizen does not use such destructive means to become wealthier is that, if everyone did so, we would all become poorer from the mutual destructiveness.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Free Software Manifesto, 1999
Using harmful means for personal gain harms everyone; cooperation is essential.
In simple terms: Destructive selfishness hurts all.
Key Takeaway
Promote cooperative ethics.
Themes
ethics
cooperation
resource sharing
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business policy
- community building
- environmental sustainability
- public health
Key Concepts
social contract
commons theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we align personal incentives with collective good?
- What structures encourage sustainable cooperation?
A Different Perspective
Cooperation can be undermined by short‑term incentives.
