Seems to me that he throws over all "social contract" theories and bases Neo-Classical Economics squarely on "Might Makes Right."  Given the size, political organization, (including unrestricted immigration), and wealth of the USA, even in 1888, at least his choice of founding principle was feasible for at least 100 years.  Mason Gaffney, one of whose professional specialties is land use and land taxation, notes that Clark is still the foundation for US tax policy on land.

"It is not necessary to have hope in order to persevere."