"Money, not morality, is the principle commerce of civilized nations"

This quote by Thomas Jefferson recommends that money, instead of morality, is the driving force behind the commerce of civilized nations. This implies that the primary focus of these nations is on the acquisition of wealth, rather than on ethical principles. This could be interpreted as a criticism of the capitalist system, which is based on the pursuit of earnings and the build-up of wealth. It might also be viewed as a reflection of the truth of the contemporary world, where money is frequently viewed as the most essential consider determining success. In this sense, the quote could be viewed as a caution against the dangers of positioning too much focus on money and product gain, and a pointer that morality must remain a top priority in any society.