Progress and Poverty · Chapter
Endnotes explained
This chapter consists of endnotes providing citations, clarifications, and additional commentary on topics such as the wage fund doctrine, Malthusian theory, land tenure, and the relationship between wages and capital, with references to cl
What happens
This chapter consists of endnotes providing citations, clarifications, and additional commentary on topics such as the wage fund doctrine, Malthusian theory, land tenure, and the relationship between wages and capital, with references to classical economists and contemporary examples.
Themes in this chapter
Wages and Labor
Endnotes discuss the wage fund doctrine, the source of wages, and the relationship between labor and capital.
Critique of Malthusian Theory
Malthus is criticized for providing a rationale for inequality and private property in land; his ratios are questioned.
Land Ownership and Rent
Ricardo's law of rent is examined, and the justification of private property in land is challenged.
Distribution of Wealth
The notes address how wealth is distributed among laborers, capitalists, and landowners, and the role of rent.
Characters to notice
- David Ricardo
Referenced for his law of rent and cited in endnotes regarding land cultivation and economic principles.
- John Stuart Mill
Quoted on the limitation of industry by capital and on Malthusian ratios; his definition of capital is compared with others.
- Thomas Malthus
Critiqued for his population theory and its use to justify private property in land; his ratios and influence are discussed.
- Francis A. Walker
Mentioned for his attack on the wage fund doctrine in 'The Wages Question', though he still accepts Malthusian theory.
- Benjamin Franklin
Referenced in an anecdote about Keimer and a roast pig, illustrating human nature.
- Adam Smith
His definition of capital is noted as prior to Malthus, contrasted with later economists.
- Herbert Spencer
Implied in the discussion of social evolution and progress, though not directly quoted in these excerpts.
- Charles Darwin
Cited from 'Origin of Species' in the context of natural selection and population.
Key passages
“This natural and inalienable right to the equal use and enjoyment of land is so apparent that it has been recognized by men wherever force or habit has not blunted first perceptions.”
The inherent right to equal access to land is obvious and has been acknowledged in societies not corrupted by coercion or custom.
Supports the theme of land ownership and the critique of private property.
“What gave to Malthus his popularity among the ruling classes… was the fact that he furnished a plausible reason for the assumption that some have a better right to existence than others.”
Malthus gained favor with the elite because he provided a seemingly logical justification for inequality.
Highlights the critique of Malthusian theory as a tool for social hierarchy.
“Industry is limited by capital. … There can be no more industry than is supplied with materials to work up and food to eat.”
The amount of productive work is constrained by the available capital, which provides raw materials and sustenance.
Reflects the wage fund doctrine and the relationship between capital and labor.
