CHAP. X.
Regulations necessary in respect to Slavery.
Book XV.
Chap. 10, & 11.BUT of whatsoever kind the slavery be, the civil laws should endeavour on the one hand to abolish the abuses of it, and on the other to guard against its dangers.
CHAP. XI.
Abuses of Slavery.
IN Mahometan states[1], not only the life and goods of female slaves, but also what is called their virtue or honour, are at their master's disposal. One of the misfortunes of those countries, is, that the greatest part of the nation are born only to be subservient to the pleasures of the other. This servitude is alleviated by the laziness in which such slaves live; which is an additional disadvantage to the state.
It is this indolence which renders the[2] Eastern seraglios so delightful to those very persons whom they were made to confine. People, who dread nothing but labour, may imagine themselves happy in these places of indolence and ease. But this shews how contrary they are to the very intent or the institution of slavery.
Reason requires that the master's power should not extend to what does not appertain to his service: slavery should be calculated for utility, and not for pleasure. The laws of chastity arise from those of nature, and ought in all nations to be respected.
