Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nation Quotes

A collection of quotes by Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nation.

Adam Smith was a Scottish economist and philosopher born in 1723. His most influential work, "The Wealth of Nations," published in 1776, laid the foundation for modern economics. Smith advocated for free-market capitalism and the division of labor, emphasizing that individuals pursuing their self-interest ultimately benefit society as a whole. Through his theories, Smith highlighted the importance of competition, specialization, and the role of government in ensuring a stable economic system. His ideas continue to shape economic thought and have had a profound impact on global trade and economic policies.

In civilized society man stands at all times in need of the

In civilized society man stands at all times in need of the cooperation and assistance of great multitudes, while his whole life is scarce sufficient to gain the friendship of a few persons. . . . Man has almost constant occasion for the help of his brethren, and it is in vain for him to expect it from their benevolence only. He will be more likely to prevail if he can interest their self-love in his favour, and show them that it is for their own advantage to do for him what he requires of them. Whoever offers to another a bargain of any kind, proposes to do this. Give me that which I want, and you shall have this which you want, is the meaning of every such offer; and it is in this manner that we obtain from one another the far greater part of those good offices which we stand in need of. It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, brewer, or the baker, that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest. . . . Nobody but a beggar chuses to depend chiefly upon the benevolence of his fellow citizens.

Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nation

Capitalism