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Of the Pernicious Effects Which Arise from the Unnatural
Distinctions
Established in Society.
From the respect paid to property flow, as from a poisoned
fountain, most of the evils and vices which render this world
such a dreary scene to the contemplative mind. For it is in the
most polished society that noisome reptiles and venomous serpents
lurk under the rank herbage; and there is voluptuousness pampered
by the still sultry air, which relaxes every good disposition
before it ripens into virtue.
One class presses on another; for all are aiming to procure respect on account of their property: and property, once gained, will procure the respect due only to talents and virtue. Men neglect the duties incumbent on man, yet are treated like demi-gods; religion is also separated from morality by a ceremonial veil, yet men wonder that the world is almost, literally speaking, a den of sharpers or oppressors.
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