In today's world, people often accumulate wealth out of a sense of insecurity or lack of trust in unseen forces that might provide them with sustenance and security, such as Providence. Similarly, individuals are hesitant to give away their resources because they do not believe there will be any form of reward or benefit for doing so. This behavior is driven by the fear that one day they may need every last penny saved up.
The quote delves into a broader context where disbelief in providence leads people to amass excessive wealth, disregarding the potential benefits of giving and sharing with others. When individuals lack faith in an overarching plan or belief system that ensures their well-being, it can lead them to prioritize personal accumulation over communal welfare and generosity. This mindset not only affects financial behavior but also social interactions and community cohesion. By hoarding resources instead of distributing them based on need, society risks creating deeper divides among its members.
Isaac Barrow was an influential English Christian theologian and mathematician who lived from 1630 to 1677. He is best known for his contributions to mathematics, where he laid some foundational groundwork that later influenced the development of calculus by Isaac Newton. Beyond his mathematical achievements, Barrow also held a significant position as the Lucasian Professor at Cambridge University and delivered many lectures on theology and moral philosophy, including this insightful observation about human nature and its relationship with beliefs in providence and charity.
