1767-Jan.-28: An ongoing economic debate in the Affiches Américaines argued that simple, patriotic displays of merit and dignity were more respectable than t…

1767-Jan.-28: An ongoing economic debate in the Affiches Américaines argued that simple, patriotic displays of merit and dignity were more respectable than the ostentatious luxury of the upper classes. The author suggested that if all social orders sacrificed personal whims for patriotic calculations, the resulting harmony would produce general happiness for the state. This economic philosophy advocated for a “benevolent economy” focused on necessity, which would provide the Prince with abundant resources during times of state need. The essay concluded that luxury often masks an underlying poverty and depravity that only increases as one attempts to hide it.