Skip to content

Whatever work he does, beyond what is sufficient to…

“Whatever work he does, beyond what is sufficient to purchase his own maintenance, can be squeezed out of him by violence only, and not by any interest of his own.” quote by Adam Smith
Download Open image
“Whatever work he does, beyond what is sufficient to purchase his own maintenance, can be squeezed out of him by violence only, and not by any interest of his own.”

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 beyond personal survival can only be extracted by force, not by personal desire.

In simple terms: People work extra only when forced, not out of personal interest.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the limits of coercion in labor.

Themes

economics labor coercion

Mood

analytical concerned

Type

economic ethical

When to use this quote

  • voluntary overtime
  • entrepreneurial initiative
  • community projects

Key Concepts

workforce motivation policy design ethical labor practices

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates people to work beyond necessity?
  • How can societies reduce forced labor?
A Different Perspective

Not all extra work is forced; some is voluntary.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Adam Smith

Explore all 267 Adam Smith quotes

More Doe quotes

Browse all 25,574 Doe quotes