Ibn Khaldun

“It should be known that the finances of a ruler can be increased, and his financial resources improved, only through the revenue from taxes. (The revenue from taxes) can be improved only through the equitable treatment of people with property and regard for them. … Other (measures) taken by the ruler, such as engaging in commerce or agriculture, soon turn out to be harmful to the subjects, to be ruinous to the revenues, and to decrease cultural activity.”

Ibn Khaldun · said date not stated · reported 2026-08-30

Ibn Khaldun discussed the negative economic effects of a ruler directly engaging in commerce.