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Whenever the legislature attempts to regulate differences…

“Whenever the legislature attempts to regulate differences between masters and their workmen, its counsellors are always the masters. When the regulation, therefore, is in favor of the workmen, it is always just and equitable; but it is sometimes otherwise when in favor of the masters.” quote by Adam Smith
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“Whenever the legislature attempts to regulate differences between masters and their workmen, its counsellors are always the masters. When the regulation, therefore, is in favor of the workmen, it is always just and equitable; but it is sometimes otherwise when in favor of the masters.”

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 lawmakers are often influenced by the powerful they regulate, so policies favoring workers are rare and may be biased toward owners.

In simple terms: Legislators tend to side with the powerful.

Key Takeaway

Beware of hidden biases in regulation.

Themes

politics economics power law justice

Mood

cautious critical reflective

Type

advisory political analytical

When to use this quote

  • labor negotiations
  • policy drafting
  • advocacy
  • public hearings
  • corporate lobbying

Key Concepts

class conflict regulatory capture interest groups

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who benefits from this regulation?
  • How can we ensure fair representation?
A Different Perspective

Even well‑intentioned laws can be skewed by elite influence.

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