Resentment seems to have been given us by nature for a defense, and for a defense only! It is the safeguard of justice and the security of innocence.
Adam SmithRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Self-interest drives economic activity and supply.
This quote by Adam Smith highlights the fundamental principle of economics that individuals and businesses act based on their self-interest. Rather than relying on the goodwill of others, such as butchers, brewers, and bakers, we benefit from their pursuit of profit, which in turn provides for our needs, demonstrating the interconnectedness of economic roles in society.
Themes
Self-InterestEconomicsDinnerTradeCooperation
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about market dynamics, you can mention, 'As Adam Smith stated, our access to goods comes from the self-interest of producers.'
More from Adam Smith
All quotes βWherever there is great property, there is great inequality.
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This is one of those cases in which the imagination is baffled by the facts.
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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.
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Defense is superior to opulence.
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I have never known much good done by those who affected to trade for the public good.
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