Note 318 — Chapter III · : THE PESSIMISTS

It is necessary to remember, however, that the old theory survived and appears here under the very name of Ricardo, for he was unsuccessful in freeing himself altogether from its influence. He defines rent as “that portion of the produce of the earth which is paid to the landlord for the use of the original and indestructible powers of the soil.” He continually refers to these powers of the soil, which are described as “natural,” “primitive,” “indestructible,” i.e. as independent of all labour.