It is a general principle of human nature, that a man will be interested in whatever he possesses, in proportion to the firmness or precariousness of the tenure by which he holds it.
Interpretation
People value what they have based on how secure or uncertain their hold on it is.
This quote by Alexander Hamilton emphasizes the psychological principle that individuals are more invested in what they own when the security of their possession is uncertain. This reflects a deeper understanding of human nature, suggesting that the perceived risk or stability associated with ownership affects one's interest and appreciation of that possession.
In practice
In a discussion on personal belongings, one might quote Hamilton to illustrate how people prioritize secure possessions.
When men, engaged in unjustifiable pursuits, are aware that obstructions may come from a quarter which bare apprehension of opposition from doing what they would with eagerness rush into if no such external impediments were to be feared.
The tendency of a national bank is to increase public and private credit. The former gives power to the state, for the protection of its rights and interests: and the latter facilitates and extends the operations of commerce among individuals. Industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state.
It's not tyranny we desire; it's a just, limited, federal government.
The Achaeans soon experienced, as often happens, that a victorious and powerful ally is but another name for a master.
The people are turbulent and changing; they seldom judge right or make good decision.
The true principle of a republic is that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is imperfect, in proportion as the current of popular favor is checked. The great source of free government, popular election, should be perfectly pure, and the most unbounded liberty allowed.
You can have the other words-chance, luck, coincidence, serendipity. I'll take grace. I don't know what it is exactly, but I'll take it.
We've been deceived by the thought that we would be more pleasing to God in our own way than in the way God has given us.
Man must feel the earth to know himself and recognize his values. God made life simple. It is man who complicates it.
Why does the past seem so magical, so fraught, so luminous? At the time it was just, ugh, another boring bloody day. But, to look back on, it's a day full of miracles and light and extraordinary events. Why is this? What process do we apply to the past, to give it this vividness? I don't know.
Man has two great spiritual needs. One is for forgiveness. The other is for goodness.
The law must be stable, but it must not stand still.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.