Active Quote by William Petty
“Here we are to remember that in consequence of our opinion that labor is the Father and active principle of wealth, as lands are the Mother, that the state by killing, mutilating, or imprisoning their members do withal punish themselves.”
About This Quote
The quote argues that labor is the primary source of wealth, likening it to a father, while land is a mother; it warns that state oppression harms its own citizens, effectively punishing the state itself.
In simple terms: Labor as wealth's father, land as mother; state oppression self‑damages.
Key Takeaway
State oppression harms its own people.
Themes
Economic theory
Political philosophy
Labor value
State power
Social justice
Mood
Reflective
Critical
Skeptical
Type
Philosophical
Political
Economic
When to use this quote
- Critiquing authoritarian regimes
- Analyzing labor‑centric economies
- Discussing land ownership debates
- Exploring state‑citizen relations
- Teaching political theory
Key Concepts
Labor as wealth driver
Land as resource
State violence
Self‑punishment
Practical Applications
- Political theory analysis
- Policy critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does state violence undermine its legitimacy?
- What alternatives exist to protect labor and land rights?
