Skip to content

Great nations Quote by Adam Smith

“Great nations are never impoverished by private, though they sometimes are by public prodigality and misconduct.” quote by Adam Smith
Download Open image
“Great nations are never impoverished by private, though they sometimes are by public prodigality and misconduct.”

Adam Smith

About This Quote

Private wealth does not impoverish nations, but public waste and misconduct can.

In simple terms: Public waste harms nations more than private wealth.

Key Takeaway

Promote responsible public spending.

Themes

economics public policy wealth misconduct national health

Mood

analytical critical

Type

economic political

When to use this quote

  • government budgeting
  • policy analysis
  • public debates
  • education programs

Key Concepts

Political economy ethics public finance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What examples illustrate public prodigality?
  • How can citizens hold governments accountable?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify causes.

2.9 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Adam Smith

Explore all 267 Adam Smith quotes

More Great nations quotes

Browse all 133 Great nations quotes