Destroy Quotes
Beneficence is always free, it cannot be extorted by force.
"Beneficence is always free, it cannot be extorted by force."— Adam Smith
Download in different sizes
Meaning of this quote
Beneficence is distinguished from enforceable justice because generosity cannot have the same moral character when compelled.
Key takeaway:
Separate voluntary generosity from obligations that can properly be enforced.
Origin of the quote
The Theory of Moral Sentiments (1759; edition varies)
Who actually said this?
VerifiedWording located in the primary text; capitalization and punctuation may vary.








