Dudley North Quotes

Powerful Dudley North for Daily Growth

About Dudley North

Dudley North (1641-1691) was an influential English politician, economist, and philosopher during the late 17th century. Born on March 23, 1641, in Stour Provost, Huntingdonshire, England, he came from a family of considerable wealth and political influence. His father, Sir Dudley North, was a Member of Parliament (MP) and diplomat who served under Oliver Cromwell during the Commonwealth era. Dudley North was educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, but his education was cut short due to the English Civil War. Instead, he traveled extensively through Europe from 1659 to 1663, honing his skills in languages and gaining valuable insights into European culture and politics. This experience greatly shaped his worldview and later influenced his works. Upon his return to England, North served as an MP between 1670 and 1687, representing various constituencies. During this time, he became involved in the economic debates of the era, advocating for free trade and economic self-sufficiency. One of his most significant contributions was "Discourses Upon Trade" (published posthumously in 1691), where he argued that national wealth depends on the ability to produce what one consumes. North is also famous for his quote, "Whatsoever things are not necessary to a man's subsistence, he requires but scarcely any thing else," which reflects his beliefs about the importance of self-reliance and economic independence. Despite his political and economic contributions, North was best known for his wit and eloquence, earning him the nickname "Hampden of Words." Dudley North died on August 14, 1691, leaving behind a legacy as an influential thinker who significantly contributed to the development of classical political economy. His works continue to be studied today, providing valuable insights into historical economic thought and policy-making.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The greatest happiness you can have is knowing that you do not necessarily require happiness."

This quote by Dudley North suggests a deep understanding and acceptance of life's inherent uncertainties and complexities. He implies that true contentment or happiness does not rely on external circumstances, but rather on our ability to find peace amidst the ever-changing tides of life. In essence, North posits that a profound sense of fulfillment comes from understanding and accepting this truth about human existence.

"No man's knowledge here below is ever so very extensive as to enable him to assure himself that every thing he sees is right and good."

Dudley North's quote signifies that no individual possesses all-encompassing wisdom or understanding of the world. It suggests humility in accepting that we may not always have definitive answers regarding what is right or good, encouraging open-mindedness and a willingness to learn from others and experience different perspectives. This quotation is particularly insightful as it emphasizes the importance of questioning our own beliefs and understanding, fostering an environment for personal growth and intellectual curiosity.

"I confess it is a great mystery to me how any man can entertain the least doubt of the being of a God, or at least a God above us."

Dudley North's quote expresses his profound belief in the existence of a supreme being, or God. He finds it hard to understand how anyone could harbor doubts about the existence of such an entity, suggesting that this belief is fundamental for him. This statement underscores the powerful conviction many people hold regarding faith and the divine.

"Politics hath no relation to virtue."

The quote by Dudley North suggests that politics, as a system or practice, is not inherently connected to moral values or virtues. He implies that political actions may not necessarily reflect ethical principles, but rather serve self-interest, power, or other non-moral objectives. This statement highlights the idea that the political arena often deviates from a moral compass and can be manipulated by individuals with questionable motives.

"The great art in politics is to keep the people from thinking."

Dudley North's quote emphasizes that effective political manipulation often lies in controlling or influencing the public's perception, thoughts, and understanding about certain issues or events. By keeping people uninformed or misinformed, politicians can maintain power, control, and avoid scrutiny over their actions. It suggests a cautionary tale about the importance of being vigilant against manipulation and encouraging critical thinking to ensure informed decision-making in politics.

The Question to be considered is, Whether the Government have reason by a Law, to prohibit the taking more than 4 l. per cent Interest for Money lent, or to leave the Borrower and Lender to make their own Bargains.

- Dudley North

Law, Reason, Question, Prohibit

And those are the Rich, who transmit what they have to their Posterity; whereby particular Families become rich; and of such are compounded Cities, Countries, Nations, etc.

- Dudley North

Rich, Cities, Transmit, Etc

No Man is richer for having his Estate all in Money, Plate, etc. lying by him, but on the contrary, he is for that reason the poorer.

- Dudley North

Reason, Poorer, Having, Etc

If any man, out of an humour, should turn all his Estate into Money, and keep it dead, he would soon be sensible of Poverty growing upon him, whilst he is eating out of the quick stock.

- Dudley North

Dead, Turn, Quick, Whilst

It may be said, let him take Money at Interest, and not buy at Time. But then Men must be found, that will lend; the Legislative must provide a Fund to borrow upon.

- Dudley North

Will, May, Buy, Legislative

One rich Man hath Lands, not only more than he can manage, but so much, that letting them out to others, he is supplied with a large over-plus, so needs no farther care.

- Dudley North

Needs, Large, Supplied, Manage

So that it cannot be denied, but the lowering of Interest may, and probably will keep some Money from coming abroad into Trade; whereas on the contrary, high Interest certainly brings it out.

- Dudley North

Some, Abroad, Certainly, Whereas

Trade is nothing else but a Commutation of Superfluities; for instance: I give mine, what I can spare, for somewhat of yours, which I want, and you can spare.

- Dudley North

Give, Mine, Which, Yours

Nor in truth, can Forreign Trade subsist without the Home Trade, both being connected together.

- Dudley North

Truth, Connected, Nor, Subsist

It is said, that in Holland Interest is lower than in England.

- Dudley North

England, Interest, Lower, Holland

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