Economic justice Quote by Thomas Jefferson
““Whenever there is in any country, uncultivated lands and unemployed poor, it is clear that the laws of property have been so far extended as to violate natural right. The earth is given as a common stock for man to labour and live on. If, for the encouragement of industry we allow it to be appropriated, we must take care that other employment be furnished to those excluded from the appropriation. If we do not the fundamental right to labour the earth returns to the unemployed.””
About This Quote
Source Letter: Notes on the State of Virginia, 1785
Land should serve all people; excessive private ownership harms the poor and labor rights.
In simple terms: Land must be shared, not hoarded.
Key Takeaway
Ensure employment for those displaced by land grabs.
Themes
property
labor
equality
economics
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- agricultural policy
- social welfare
- housing
- land reform
Key Concepts
natural rights
common good
distribution
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance private incentive with communal need?
- What policies protect both landowners and the landless?
A Different Perspective
If property rights are too restrictive, innovation may suffer.
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