Quote by Charles de Montesquieu
The alms given to a naked man in the street do not fulfil the obligations of the state, which owes to every citizen a certain subsistence, a proper nourishment, convenient clothing, and a kind of life not incompatible with health.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the idea that individuals' acts of charity and giving cannot replace the responsibility of the state to provide its citizens with basic necessities. While offering alms to a destitute person is a compassionate act, it does not absolve the state from its obligation to ensure every citizen's survival, adequate nourishment, suitable clothing, and a decent standard of living. The quote highlights the need for governments to prioritize policies that support and protect the well-being of their citizens, rather than relying on individual acts of charity as a substitute for systemic change.
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