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Quotes by Adam Smith

Born: 5th June 1723, Died: 17th July 1790
Adam Smith was a Scottish economist, philosopher, and author.
Welcome to our collection of quotes by the renowned economist, Adam Smith. Discover the timeless wisdom and profound insights that have made Smith a significant figure in the field of economics. This page offers a curated selection of thoughts and ideas that span Smith's influential works, from "The Wealth of Nations" to "The Theory of Moral Sentiments." Immerse yourself in Smith's teachings as he explores the concepts of capitalism, division of labor, and the invisible hand. Gain a deeper understanding of his perspective on wealth, self-interest, and the role of government in economic systems. Whether you are a student, scholar, or simply seeking intellectual enrichment, this compilation of Adam Smith's quotes is a valuable resource to enlighten and inspire your knowledge of economics and societal development.

The real tragedy of the poor is the poverty of their aspirations. Read Summary

As soon as the land of any country has all become private property, the landlords, like all other men, love to reap where they never sowed, and demand a rent even for its natural produce. Read Summary

On the road from the City of Skepticism, I had to pass through the Valley of Ambiguity. Read Summary

What can be added to the happiness of a man who is in health, out of debt, and has a clear conscience? Read Summary

Happiness never lays its finger on its pulse. Read Summary

To feel much for others and little for ourselves; to restrain our selfishness and exercise our benevolent affections, constitute the perfection of human nature. Read Summary

I have never known much good done by those who affected to trade for the public good. Read Summary

This is one of those cases in which the imagination is baffled by the facts. Read Summary

Science is the great antidote to the poison of enthusiasm and superstition. Read Summary

It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest. Read Summary

Labour was the first price, the original purchase - money that was paid for all things. It was not by gold or by silver, but by labour, that all wealth of the world was originally purchased. Read Summary

Humanity is the virtue of a woman, generosity that of a man. Read Summary

It is not by augmenting the capital of the country, but by rendering a greater part of that capital active and productive than would otherwise be so, that the most judicious operations of banking can increase the industry of the country. Read Summary

Consumption is the sole end and purpose of all production; and the interest of the producer ought to be attended to, only so far as it may be necessary for promoting that of the consumer. Read Summary

Virtue is more to be feared than vice, because its excesses are not subject to the regulation of conscience. Read Summary

The propensity to truck, barter and exchange one thing for another is common to all men, and to be found in no other race of animals. Read Summary

Great ambition, the desire of real superiority, of leading and directing, seems to be altogether peculiar to man, and speech is the great instrument of ambition. Read Summary

Resentment seems to have been given us by nature for a defense, and for a defense only! It is the safeguard of justice and the security of innocence. Read Summary

With the greater part of rich people, the chief enjoyment of riches consists in the parade of riches. Read Summary

Little else is requisite to carry a state to the highest degree of opulence from the lowest barbarism but peace, easy taxes, and a tolerable administration of justice: all the rest being brought about by the natural course of things. Read Summary