Quote by Thomas Malthus
The love of independence is a sentiment that surely none would wish to see erased from the breast of man, though the parish law of England, it must be confessed, is a system of all others the most calculated gradually to weaken this sentiment, and in the end may eradicate it completely.
Summary
This quote suggests that the love for independence is a fundamental human sentiment that should be cherished. However, it acknowledges that the parish law in England has a tendency to undermine and diminish this love for independence over time. The quote implies that this system may eventually eliminate the sentiment of independence entirely. It highlights the conflict between the desire for personal freedom and the impact of societal laws and systems that may hinder or erode this natural inclination.