"With respect to the first of these obstacles, it has often been made a matter of grave complaint against Political Economists, that they confine their attention to Wealth, and disregard all consideration of Happiness or Virtue"
- Nassau William Senior
About this Quote
This quote by Nassau William Senior speaks to the criticism that Political Economists have received for focusing entirely on wealth and disregarding the value of joy and virtue. Senior acknowledges that this is a valid complaint, and that it is a significant challenge to the progress of Political Economy. He indicates that Political Economists must take into account the value of joy and virtue when making choices and creating theories. Senior's quote suggests that wealth must not be the only element taken into account when making choices, which joy and virtue should likewise be taken into consideration. This quote highlights the significance of thinking about the impacts of choices on individuals's happiness and morality, and not just their wealth. It is a suggestion that choices ought to be made with the well-being of all people in mind, not simply the rich.
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
