Direct Quote by Adam Smith
“The great secret of education is to direct vanity to proper objects.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Theory of Moral Sentiments, 1759
Education should channel personal pride toward socially beneficial goals.
In simple terms: Teach vanity to serve good purposes.
Key Takeaway
Guide self‑interest to community benefit.
Themes
education
virtue
self‑interest
Mood
reflective
instructive
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- schools
- parenting
- corporate training
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
social utility
human motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can curricula redirect ego?
- What values replace vanity?
A Different Perspective
Vanity can become destructive if misdirected.
