Colonization and Capital

Name: Colonization and Capital
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work discusses the necessity and moral obligation of colonization for Great Britain, emphasizing a vision of national colonization that fosters hope rather than despair. It critiques the past fifty years of colonization efforts, suggesting they have been driven by negative motivations. The author highlights the transformative power of machinery in production, noting that while it has made manufactured goods cheaper, it has not significantly reduced the costs of natural resources or essential needs. This disparity results in a situation where the wealthy benefit disproportionately from industrial advancements, while the poor see minimal improvements in their quality of life. The text argues that the accumulation of capital in the country has led to internal conflict, as excess capital lacks productive outlets, creating economic instability. The author calls for a reevaluation of colonization strategies to align with a more hopeful and constructive vision, advocating for a balance between capital and the needs of society.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1839 · Genre: Political Philosophy, Social Critique, Economic Theory · 272 words

First lines

Colonization is not only a manifest expedient for, but an imperative duty on, Great Britain. God seems to hold out his finger to us over the sea. But it must be a national colonization, such as was that of the Scotch to America; a colonization of hope, and not such as we have alone encouraged and effected for the last fifty years, a colonization of despair.

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Colonization and Capital is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1839 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1839 CE
Language: English
Genres: Political Philosophy, Social Critique, Economic Theory, Historical Analysis, Philosophical Essay
Length: 272 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Political Philosophy — The text discusses the moral and ethical implications of colonization and capitalism, reflecting on national duty and societal responsibilities.
Social Critique — The work critiques the disparities between social classes and the impact of industrialization on different segments of society.
Economic Theory — It addresses the relationship between capital accumulation, production, and the economic conditions of various social classes.
Historical Analysis — The text references historical contexts of colonization and economic practices, providing insights into past societal structures.