"In a state therefore of great equality and virtue, where pure and simple manners prevailed, the increase of the human species would evidently be much greater than any increase that has been hitherto known"

This quote by Thomas Malthus is describing the concept that in a society where equality and virtue are extremely valued, the population would increase more than it has in any other society. Malthus is recommending that if individuals were to reside in a state of equality and virtue, where individuals are living in a more basic and pure way, then the population would increase more than it has in any other society. This is because people would be most likely to have more kids, as they would be living in a more safe and steady environment. Additionally, individuals would be most likely to take much better care of their children, as they would have more resources offered to them. This would lead to a greater rate of survival for kids, and hence a greater population growth rate. Malthus is recommending that if people were to live in a state of equality and virtue, then the population would increase more than it has in any other society.