"In a very alert and bright state of society people learn co-operation by themselves, but in older and quieter conditions of laboring enterprise, such a bill as I propose will point out the way to mutual exertion"

This quote by Leland Stanford resolves the progressing nature of social development and cooperation within different socio-economic contexts. Stanford distinguishes between two kinds of societies: one that is "really alert and intense" and another defined by "older and quieter conditions."

In the first situation, where society is dynamic and ingenious, cooperation emerges naturally. This environment most likely fosters imagination, communication, and a shared sense of function, making it possible for individuals to take part in collaborative efforts without external prompts. The "alert and bright" society might be comprehended as one moved by younger energy, where originalities and techniques are continuously looked for and used. In such a setting, the collective awareness drives cooperation organically because people acknowledge the instant and tangible advantages of working together towards common goals, whether for financial, social, or technological improvements.

On the other hand, Stanford describes "older and quieter conditions" as environments that may do not have the spontaneous drive towards cooperation due to established regimens, resistance to alter, or a focus on traditional practices. Such societies might be slower to adjust to new collaborative approaches since their "laboring enterprise" operates under more rigid, possibly hierarchical systems. Here, Stanford indicates that inertia or complacency can suppress the natural development towards cooperative efforts.

For that reason, Stanford proposes the intro of an expense to act as a driver for these societies. The bill works as a structured guide or structure that nudges people and companies towards collaborative actions. By developing a legal inspiration, he aims to pave "the method to shared effort", stimulating collective effort where it might not naturally happen. Stanford's concept recommends that in societies not inherently disposed to development and cooperation, external influences such as new policies or legislation can stimulate the required cultural shifts.

In general, the quote reflects Stanford's understanding of social characteristics and the important role of external interventions in fostering cooperation in less progressive environments. It highlights the potential of structured initiatives to improve cumulative efforts and lead societies towards more dynamic and cooperative futures.