Chapter 1, Footnote #05
Considerations of a general kind
The least reflection will show that in ordinary political discussions reference is continually made to propositions laid down as true of civilised man generally, not merely of the English species of civilised man. Why is strong resistance made to legislation interfering with freedom of contract? Because it is thought that men in general are likely to know their own interest better than any government can know it for them; or that they are likely to gain more in vigour of intellect and character by being left to manage their own affairs than they are likely to lose matorially through foolish contracts. Why is it thought expedient to increase the number of peasant proprietors? Because it is thought that men in general will labour more energetically if they receive the whole advantage resulting from their labour. And, similarly, in other cases of current interest.