Whenever there are in any country uncultivated lands and unemployed poor, it is clear that the laws of property have been so far extended as to violate natural right. The earth is given as a common stock for man to labor and live on. The small landowners are the most precious part of a state.

Summary

This quote, often attributed to Thomas Jefferson, asserts that the existence of uncultivated lands and unemployed poor in a country indicates a violation of natural right through an excessive extension of property laws. It argues that the earth should be considered a shared resource for all humans to work on and sustain their lives. Furthermore, the quote highlights the significance of small landowners in a state, suggesting that maintaining a diverse range of land ownership is crucial for a healthy society.

Topics