The Earth is the general and equal possession of all humanity and therefore cannot be the property of individuals

The Earth is the general and equal possession of all humanity and therefore cannot be the property of individuals

Leo Tolstoy, the renowned Russian writer and philosopher, was a firm believer in the idea that the Earth is the general and equal possession of all humanity and therefore cannot be the property of individuals. This belief was deeply rooted in his philosophy of non-violence, equality, and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

Tolstoy argued that the Earth, with all its resources and beauty, is a gift that belongs to all people equally. He believed that the concept of private property was a source of inequality and conflict, as it allowed some individuals to amass wealth and power at the expense of others. In his famous work, "The Kingdom of God is Within You," Tolstoy wrote, "The land is God's. It is given to all, and not to one in particular. It is not the property of individuals, but the common property of all."

Tolstoy's views on land ownership were influenced by his Christian faith and his belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ. He saw the accumulation of wealth and property as a form of greed and selfishness that went against the principles of love, compassion, and sharing that were central to Christianity. Tolstoy believed that true happiness and fulfillment could only be achieved through living a simple and humble life, free from the desire for material possessions.