What Adam Smith thinks about capitalism

@adam-smith · 27 positions · On ppll ↗

Scottish moral philosopher and economist (1723 to 1790); held the chair of moral philosophy at Glasgow University from 1752 to 1764; author of The Wealth of Nations.

Adam Smith did not write this page.

We collected these quotes from things they published elsewhere, and every quote links to where it was said. They have no account here and have not endorsed this site. Quotes are word for word; the short line under each one is our own restatement, not their wording. Their own site. Is this you? Claim it or ask us to remove it. Or tell us what is wrong here.

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Only Adam Smith on capitalism. See everyone on capitalism

2 dated positions, 1776, in their own words. Our reading of what Adam Smith has said — not written or endorsed by them.

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1. 9 Mar 1776

   Our readingWe get our dinner from traders by appealing to their self-interest, not to their kindness

   Their wordsIt 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. We address ourselves, not to their humanity, but to their self-love, and never talk to them of our own necessities, but of their advantages.

   ↗An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nationsgutenberg.org All 7 from this book

3. 9 Mar 1776

   Our readingBy pursuing their own interest, people frequently serve society better than when they set out to serve it

   Their wordsBy pursuing his own interest, he frequently promotes that of the society more effectually than when he really intends to promote it. I have never known much good done by those who affected to trade for the public good.

   ↗An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nationsgutenberg.org All 7 from this book