Adam Smith Quotes, born in Kirkcaldy, Scotland, was a Scottish economist, philosopher, and author, widely regarded as the father of modern economics. His seminal works, The Theory of Moral Sentiments (1759) and An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations (1776), introduced key concepts like the “invisible hand” and laid the foundation for classical economics, emphasizing free markets, individual self-interest, and limited government intervention. A leading figure of the Scottish Enlightenment, Smith’s ideas continue to shape economic thought.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his books, lectures, and documented writings—reflect his insights on economics, human nature, morality, and society, capturing his profound intellect and enduring relevance.
15 Adam Smith Quotes
- “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.” (An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter II)
- “Every individual… intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter II)
- “The real tragedy of the poor is the poverty of their aspirations.” (The Theory of Moral Sentiments, 1759)
- “No society can surely be flourishing and happy, of which the far greater part of the members are poor and miserable.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter VIII)
- “Man is an animal that makes bargains: no other animal does this—no dog exchanges bones with another.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter II)
- “The great source of both the misery and disorders of human life seems to arise from overrating or underrating the value of things.” (The Theory of Moral Sentiments, 1759, Part IV, Chapter I)
- “All money is a matter of belief.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter V)
- “Labour was the first price, the original purchase-money that was paid for all things.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter V)
- “Mercy to the guilty is cruelty to the innocent.” (The Theory of Moral Sentiments, 1759, Part II, Section II, Chapter III)
- “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.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter II)
- “How selfish soever man may be supposed, there are evidently some principles in his nature, which interest him in the fortune of others.” (The Theory of Moral Sentiments, 1759, Part I, Section I, Chapter I)
- “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.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter VIII)
- “Never complain of that of which it is at all times in your power to rid yourself.” (The Theory of Moral Sentiments, 1759, Part VII, Section II, Chapter I)
- “The real and effectual discipline which is exercised over a workman is that of his customers. It is the fear of losing their employment which restrains his frauds and corrects his negligence.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter X)
- “Science is the great antidote to the poison of enthusiasm and superstition.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book V, Chapter I, Part III)
Adam Smith’s quotes are a timeless blend of economic insight, moral philosophy, and keen observation of human behavior, inspiring thinkers and policymakers to balance self-interest with societal good. Which one sparks your reflection on life or economics? Share it below and keep Smith’s intellectual legacy alive!
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