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Where wages are not regulated by law, all that we can…

“Where wages are not regulated by law, all that we can pretend to determine is, what are the most usual; and experience seems to show that law can never regulate them properly, though it has often pretended to do so.” quote by Adam Smith
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““Where wages are not regulated by law, all that we can pretend to determine is, what are the most usual; and experience seems to show that law can never regulate them properly, though it has often pretended to do so.””

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.

Unregulated wages become customary norms, but law struggles to control them effectively.

In simple terms: Law can’t fully control wages.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of regulation.

Themes

economics law labor markets

Mood

analytical neutral

Type

economic policy

When to use this quote

  • salary negotiations
  • minimum wage debates
  • labor union strategies
  • government legislation

Key Concepts

classical economics public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do customs influence wage levels?
  • What policies can better address wage fairness?
A Different Perspective

Regulation may need complementary measures.

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