Thomas Jefferson on Gain of Commerce
on Friday, March 8, 2013Thomas Jefferson Money Quotation saying there are no higher goals or purpose for business beyond financial growth and suggests it add goals for humanity. Thomas Jefferson said:
“The selfish spirit of commerce knows no country, and feels no passion or principle but that of gain” — Thomas Jefferson
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This quote suggests that Thomas Jefferson believed commerce and business tend to be guided primarily by self-interest and the pursuit of profit, rather than other loyalties or values. He appears to be saying that commercial enterprises are motivated mainly by the goal of financial gain above all else, with no real allegiance to any particular country or other principles.
Jefferson seems to have viewed the “selfish spirit of commerce” as prioritizing earnings and returns over nationality, ethics or other considerations. The quote conveys Jefferson’s perspective that economic or trade interests are largely driven by seeking monetary rewards with few other attachments or influences.