Books Quote by Thomas B. Macaulay
“Thus, then, stands the case. It is good, that authors should be remunerated; and the least exceptionable way of remunerating them is by a monopoly. Yet monopoly is an evil. For the sake of the good we must submit to the evil; but the evil ought not to last a day longer than is necessary for the purpose of securing the good.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Parliamentary Debate, 1845
Authors deserve payment, but granting them a monopoly is morally problematic; the monopoly should be limited to serve the greater good.
In simple terms: Pay writers, but limit monopoly to protect fairness.
Key Takeaway
Balance compensation with competition.
Themes
fairness
economics
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- publishing contracts
- copyright law
- government subsidies
- artist royalties
Key Concepts
property rights
public good
monopoly regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How long should a monopoly be allowed for a public benefit?
- What safeguards prevent abuse of monopoly power?
A Different Perspective
Monopolies can stifle innovation and create inequality.
