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Corruption Quote by William Cowper

“Thieves at home must hang; but he that puts Into his overgorged and bloated purse The wealth of Indian provinces, escapes.” quote by William Cowper
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“Thieves at home must hang; but he that puts Into his overgorged and bloated purse The wealth of Indian provinces, escapes.”

William Cowper

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The Task" by William Cowper, 1785

Wealth accumulated by greed can slip away, while thieves at home are punished; material riches are fleeting.

In simple terms: Greedy wealth is unstable.

Key Takeaway

Beware of greed and focus on integrity.

Themes

greed wealth justice impermanence

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • financial planning
  • ethical business
  • personal finance
  • law enforcement

Key Concepts

economics morality poetry

Questions to Reflect On

  • What values can replace the pursuit of wealth?
  • How does society punish hidden theft?
A Different Perspective

Greed may also fund positive change if redirected.

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