Economy Quotes
It is the highest impertinence and presumption, therefore, in kings and ministers to pretend to watch over the economy of private people, and to restrain their expense. They are themselves, always, and without any exception, the greatest spendthrifts in the society.
"It is the highest impertinence and presumption, therefore, in kings and ministers to pretend to watch over the economy of private people, and to restrain their expense. They are themselves, always, and without any exception, the greatest spendthrifts in the society."— Adam Smith
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Meaning of this quote
Smith criticizes rulers who restrict private spending while spending heavily themselves.
Key takeaway:
Examine whether those imposing restraint apply comparable standards to their own conduct.
Origin of the quote
The Wealth of Nations (1776)
Who actually said this?
Combines two sentences from Book II, chapter III while omitting the intervening examples of sumptuary restrictions without an ellipsis.
Source:
The Wealth of Nations (1776)
