Publius Forum

Monday, September 8, 2008

Founders' Daily Quote: 8 Sept 08

"Finally, there seem to be but three Ways for a Nation to acquire Wealth. The first is by War as the Romans did in plundering their conquered Neighbours. This is Robbery. The second by Commerce which is generally Cheating. The third by Agriculture the only honest Way; wherein Man receives a real Increase of the Seed thrown into the Ground, in a kind of continual Miracle wrought by the Hand of God in his favour, as a Reward for his innocent Life, and virtuous Industry."

--Benjamin Franklin (Positions to be Examined, 4 April 1769); Reference: Franklin Collected Works, Lemay, ed., 645.

This is so deep that to put it into a few words is remarkable. Hat's off to ya, Ben. Oh, one thing. Why is Commerce cheating? Is that not what we do with our agriculture? Just curious.

I have to remember the meaning of some words have changed, and I also know this is a different time. Still, I believe without commerce, we would be a poorer country, people, and we may not be as generous as we are. I wish someone could help me to understand what you meant by that statement. Any takers? Thanks.

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Cross-posted @ Rosemary's News and Ideas.

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