Character Quote by Thomas Paine
““A substantial good drawn from a real evil, is of the same benefit to society as if drawn from a virtue; and where men have not public spirit to render themselves serviceable, it ought to be the study of government to draw the best use possible from their vices. When the governing passion of any man, or set of men, is once known, the method of managing them is easy; for even misers, whom no public virtue can impress, would become generous, could a heavy tax be laid upon covetousness.””
About This Quote
Source Treat: Common Sense, 1776
Governments should harness private vices for public benefit, turning selfish motives into useful outcomes.
In simple terms: Use selfishness for good.
Key Takeaway
Design policies that channel self‑interest toward societal good.
Themes
politics
ethics
public policy
human nature
economics
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- taxation
- regulation
- public service
- social welfare
- corporate governance
Key Concepts
virtue ethics
public good
incentive alignment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure private selfishness truly benefits the public?
- What safeguards prevent abuse of such policies?
A Different Perspective
Assumes vices can be reliably directed, which may not hold universally.
