Adam Smith Economist Quotes, a Scottish economist, philosopher, and author, is widely regarded as the father of modern economics. His seminal work, An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations (1776), alongside The Theory of Moral Sentiments (1759), introduced foundational economic concepts like the “invisible hand,” division of labor, and free markets. A key figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, Smith’s ideas on trade, production, and individual self-interest continue to shape economic theory.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his books and writings—focus specifically on his economic insights, reflecting his profound understanding of markets, labor, and wealth creation.
15 Adam Smith Economist 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 division of labour… so far as it can be introduced, occasions, in every art, a proportionable increase of the productive powers of labour.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter I)
- “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)
- “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)
- “Labour was the first price, the original purchase-money that was paid for all things.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter V)
- “All money is a matter of belief.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter V)
- “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)
- “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)
- “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)
- “The natural effort of every individual to better his own condition… is so powerful, that it is alone, and without any assistance, capable of carrying on the society to wealth and prosperity.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter V)
- “Every man is rich or poor according to the degree in which he can afford to enjoy the necessaries, conveniences, and amusements of human life.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter V)
- “The real price of everything… is the toil and trouble of acquiring it.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter V)
- “People of the same trade seldom meet together, even for merriment and diversion, but the conversation ends in a conspiracy against the public.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter X)
- “The establishment of any new manufacture, of any new branch of commerce… is always a speculation, from which the projector promises himself extraordinary profits.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter II)
Adam Smith’s economist quotes are a brilliant blend of practical wisdom and visionary insight, inspiring economists, policymakers, and thinkers to understand the interplay of self-interest, markets, and societal wealth. Which one shapes your view of economics? Share it below and keep Smith’s foundational legacy alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
