But the principle is always the same: to take from some people on the basis of legislation to give the proceeds to others.

Frédéric Bastiat
Pamphlets
Section 6 of 6

After having described the errors of his opponents, Frédéric Bastiat concludes his pamphlet by describing what are his recommendations. He yearns for a system in which liberty comes ahead of legislation as much as property does. Today’s quote reminds us the principle against which he is fighting through the Free-Trade Association, of which principles he is advocating.

It is interesting to note in passing how he criticises “capitalists” who have created the ground on which communists demands have flourished by creating new privileges for themselves in the form of protective tariffs. The communists have at least the legitimacy of trying to fight against misery, which is not the case for these rent-seeking “capitalists”.

Other quotes from Property and Law:
Section 1 of 6 – Section 2 of 6 – Section 3 of 6 – Section 4 of 6 – Section 5 of 6 – Section 6 of 6