Adam Smith Quotes on Government, a Scottish economist and philosopher, 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), laid the groundwork for classical economics, advocating free markets and limited government intervention. Smith’s views on government emphasize its role in protecting justice, defense, and essential public works while warning against overreach that stifles economic freedom.
These 15 quotes—sourced primarily from Wealth of Nations and, where relevant, The Theory of Moral Sentiments—focus specifically on his insights regarding the role, responsibilities, and limitations of government, reflecting his balanced perspective on governance and economic liberty.
15 Adam Smith Quotes on Government
- “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.” (An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations, 1776, Introduction to Book IV)
- “The first duty of the sovereign, that of protecting the society from the violence and invasion of other independent societies, can be performed only by means of a military force.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book V, Chapter I, Part I)
- “The second duty of the sovereign, that of protecting, as far as possible, every member of the society from the injustice or oppression of every other member of it, or the duty of establishing an exact administration of justice.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book V, Chapter I, Part II)
- “The third and last duty of the sovereign or commonwealth is that of erecting and maintaining those public institutions and those public works, which… are of such a nature that the profit could never repay the expense to any individual.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book V, Chapter I, Part III)
- “Civil government, so far as it is instituted for the security of property, is in reality instituted for the defence of the rich against the poor, or of those who have some property against those who have none at all.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book V, Chapter I, Part II)
- “Every tax… is to the person who pays it a badge, not of slavery, but of liberty.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book V, Chapter II, Part II)
- “The subjects of every state ought to contribute towards the support of the government, as nearly as possible, in proportion to their respective abilities.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book V, Chapter II, Part II)
- “To prohibit a great people… from making all that they can of every part of their own produce… is a manifest violation of the most sacred rights of mankind.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter VII)
- “The natural effort of every individual to better his own condition, when suffered to exert itself with freedom and security, is so powerful a principle, that it is alone… capable of carrying on the society to wealth and prosperity.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter V)
- “It is the highest impertinence and presumption… in kings and ministers, to pretend to watch over the economy of private people.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book II, Chapter III)
- “The statesman who should attempt to direct private people in what manner they ought to employ their capitals, would not only load himself with a most unnecessary attention, but assume an authority which could safely be trusted, not only to no single person, but to no council or senate whatever.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter II)
- “All systems either of preference or of restraint, therefore, being thus completely taken away, the obvious and simple system of natural liberty establishes itself of its own accord.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter IX)
- “The violence and injustice of the rulers of mankind is an ancient evil, for which, I am afraid, the nature of human affairs can scarce admit of a remedy.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter III)
- “The capricious ambition of kings and ministers has not, during the present and the preceding century, been more fatal to the repose of Europe, than the impertinent jealousy of merchants and manufacturers.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book IV, Chapter III)
- “When the public deliberates concerning any regulation of commerce or police, the proprietors of land never can mislead it, with a view to promote the interest of their own particular order.” (Wealth of Nations, 1776, Book I, Chapter XI)
Adam Smith’s quotes on government are a timeless blend of practical governance principles and a staunch defense of economic freedom, urging policymakers to prioritize justice, security, and minimal interference while fostering prosperity. Which one shapes your view of government’s role in society? Share it below and keep Smith’s economic and political wisdom 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
