Basil of Caesarea: Rich Right of Preemption
on Sunday, July 17, 2016Basil of Caesarea Money Quote saying the rich take what they wish a claim they own it simply because they have possession. Basil of Caesarea said:
“This is what the rich do. They seize common goods before others have the opportunity, then claim them as their own by right of preemption” — Basil of Caesarea
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In this quote, St. Basil of Caesarea is criticizing how the wealthy acquire and accumulate resources. The best interpretation is:
- St. Basil observed that rich individuals would quickly lay claim to valuable common assets, goods or opportunities before others had a fair chance.
- By being first and fastest to seize such things meant for public/community use and benefit, the rich would then assert that these things rightfully belonged to them through “preemption” or prior appropriation.
- St. Basil saw this as an unjust means for the advantaged to monopolize prospects and increase their wealth at the expense of others having a fair opportunity.
- The overall message is one of social justice – St. Basil believed the wealthy unfairly exploited their advantage and speed to corner benefits that should be available to all, not just those able to outcompete others through preemptive actions alone.