Skip to content

Nobody but a beggar chooses to depend chiefly upon the…

“Nobody but a beggar chooses to depend chiefly upon the benevolence of his fellow-citizens.” quote by Adam Smith
Download Open image
“Nobody but a beggar chooses to depend chiefly upon the benevolence of his fellow-citizens.”

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.

The quote asserts that reliance on others' charity is a choice of the destitute, implying self-reliance is preferable.

In simple terms: Self-reliance over charity

Key Takeaway

Independence is a virtue

Themes

self-reliance social responsibility economic independence poverty charity

Mood

reflective cautious inspirational

Type

maxim observation philosophical statement

When to use this quote

  • personal finance planning
  • community development initiatives
  • social welfare policy debates
  • entrepreneurial ventures
  • education on financial literacy

Key Concepts

individual agency social contract economic behavior

Practical Applications

  • policy design for social safety nets
  • motivational speaking on self-sufficiency

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does dependence on others affect personal agency?
  • When is seeking help a sign of weakness versus prudence?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Adam Smith

Explore all 267 Adam Smith quotes

More Beggar quotes

Browse all 455 Beggar quotes