Property is not the sacred right. When a rich man becomes poor it is a misfortune, it is not a moral evil. When a poor man becomes destitute, it is a moral evil, teeming with consequences and injurious to society and morality.

Summary

This quote highlights the perspective that property rights are not inherently sacred, meaning they are not unalterable or unquestionable. It suggests that while a wealthy individual losing their wealth may be seen as unfortunate, it is not necessarily considered a moral wrong. However, if a poor person becomes completely deprived and destitute, this is seen as a moral evil that carries significant consequences for both society and morality. The quote implies that such disparity in economic welfare, particularly extreme poverty, can have detrimental effects on society and the ethical fabric of a community.

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