If we can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people, under the pretense of taking care of them, they must become happy.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jefferson argues that happiness comes when the government stops wasting people's labor under the guise of caring for them.
- In plain terms
- People become happy when the government stops wasting their work pretending to help.
- What can you take from it?
- Government interference often hinders happiness rather than helping.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does government help or hinder?
- What is true care?
Another view
It ignores potential benefits of social safety nets.
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