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Attention Quote by Thomas Malthus

“THERE is scarcely any inquiry more curious, or, from its importance, more worthy of attention, than that which traces the causes which practically check the progress of wealth in different countries, and stop it, or make it proceed very slowly, while the power of production remains comparatively…” quote by Thomas Malthus
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“THERE is scarcely any inquiry more curious, or, from its importance, more worthy of attention, than that which traces the causes which practically check the progress of wealth in different countries, and stop it, or make it proceed very slowly, while the power of production remains comparatively undiminished, or at least would furnish the means of a great and abundant increase of produce and population.”

Thomas Malthus

About This Quote

Source Book: An Essay on the Principle of Population, 1798

The quote examines why some nations' wealth grows slowly despite ample productive capacity, focusing on factors that hinder economic progress.

In simple terms: It asks why wealth can be slow even when production is high.

Key Takeaway

Identify and address barriers to economic growth.

Themes

economics population wealth production growth

Mood

analytical critical inquisitive

Type

economic historical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • development planning
  • historical economic study
  • comparative economics

Key Concepts

Malthusian theory resource constraints institutional factors

Questions to Reflect On

  • What factors most limit wealth growth today?
  • How can policy mitigate these constraints?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook cultural or technological drivers that can offset constraints.

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