Note 28 — Chapter I · : THE PHYSIOCRATS

“Labour applied anywhere except to land is absolutely sterile, for man is not a creator.” (Le Trosne, p. 942.)

“This physical truth that the earth is the source of all commodities is so very evident that none of us can doubt it.” (Le Trosne, Intérêt social.)

“The produce of the soil may be divided into two parts … what remains over is free and disposable, a pure gift given to the cultivator in addition to the return for his outlay and the wages of his labour.” (Turgot, Réflexions.)

“Raw material is transformed into beautiful and useful objects through the diligence of the artisan, but before his task begins it is necessary that others should supply the raw material and provide the necessary sustenance. When their part is completed others should recompense them and pay them for their trouble. The cultivators, on the other hand, produce their own raw material, whether for use or for consumption, as well as everything that is consumed by others. This is just where the difference between a productive and a sterile class comes in.” (Baudeau, Correspondance avec M. Graslin.)