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Labour was the first price, the original purchase - money…

“Labour was the first price, the original purchase - money that was paid for all things. It was not by gold or by silver, but by labour, that all wealth of the world was originally purchased.” quote by Adam Smith
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“Labour was the first price, the original purchase - money that was paid for all things. It was not by gold or by silver, but by labour, that all wealth of the world was originally purchased.”

Adam Smith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Labor is the true source of value, not precious metals; wealth originates from work.

In simple terms: Work creates wealth, not gold.

Key Takeaway

Recognize labor’s fundamental role.

Themes

economics value labor wealth history

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical economic

When to use this quote

  • business
  • policy
  • personal finance
  • education
  • development

Key Concepts

Labor theory of value production exchange

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does labor create value in modern economies?
  • Can non‑labor inputs be equally valuable?
A Different Perspective

Labor alone cannot address all wealth disparities.

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