Skip to content

Avarice Quote by Thomas Paine

“Oppression is often the consequence, but seldom or never the means of riches; and tho' avarice will preserve a man from being necessitously poor, it generally makes him too timorous to be wealthy.” quote by Thomas Paine
Download Open image
“Oppression is often the consequence, but seldom or never the means of riches; and tho' avarice will preserve a man from being necessitously poor, it generally makes him too timorous to be wealthy.”

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

Source Treat: Common Sense, 1776

Wealth often comes from greed, which can also paralyze ambition and prevent true prosperity.

In simple terms: Greed can give money but hinders bold success.

Key Takeaway

Beware letting greed dictate choices.

Themes

wealth greed ambition psychology

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • business decisions
  • personal finance
  • career planning

Key Concepts

capitalism risk aversion self‑sabotage

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is wealth without greed possible?
  • How does fear limit success?
A Different Perspective

Greed may also motivate hard work and innovation.

2.5 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Thomas Paine

Explore all 772 Thomas Paine quotes

More Avarice quotes

Browse all 318 Avarice quotes