Final answer:
The statement about ownership based solely on possession is false as ownership rights often require proof beyond possession. Likewise, the claim that proprietors only collect profits is false, as they had multiple responsibilities in governing a proprietary colony.
Step-by-step explanation:
Regarding the statement that ownership is generally assumed by possession and it is not customary for the seller to prove their ownership rights, the answer is false. Though possession of personal property is a strong indicator of ownership, laws require proof of ownership through titles, receipts, or other forms of evidence, particularly when disputes arise. When selling an item, especially of significant value, the seller may be asked to demonstrate ownership to ensure the item is not stolen and that they have the legal right to sell it.
Regarding proprietary colonies, the answer to the statement that proprietors have no responsibilities except to collect the profits is false. Proprietors in a proprietary colony had several responsibilities, including the governance, development, and administration of the colony. They were not solely focused on profit; rather, they were also responsible for maintaining the well-being of the colony and its inhabitants.
In summary, ownership involves rights and responsibilities that go beyond mere possession, and contracts and legal ownership processes play a considerable role in modern societies. This is paralleled in proprietary colonies by the proprietors' roles which encompassed multi-faceted responsibilities.