more from Bertrand Russell

Single Idea 21524

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / C. Rights / 4. Property rights]

Full Idea

There are many ways of becoming rich without contributing anything to the wealth of the community. Ownership of land or capital, whether acquired or inherited, gives a legal right to a permanent income.

Gist of Idea

The right to own land gives a legal right to a permanent income

Source

Bertrand Russell (Political Ideals [1917], 2)

Book Reference

Russell,Bertrand: 'Political Ideals' [Spokesman 2007], p.30


A Reaction

I suspect that in the past land was the main source of this right, but now it is more likely to be capital. Land carries obligations of some sort, so income from capital is more fun.