Backwards Quote by Adam Smith
“The liberal reward of labor, therefore, as it is the necessary effect, so it is the natural symptom of increasing national wealth. The scanty maintenance of the laboring poor, on the other hand, is the natural symptom that things are at a stand, and their starving condition that they going backwards fast.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Wealth of Nations, 1776
Labor’s reward reflects national prosperity; neglect of the poor signals economic stagnation and decline.
In simple terms: Fair wages show a healthy economy; ignoring workers hurts growth.
Support policies that protect labor.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- business strategy
- community planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies can better support the working poor?
- How does worker welfare affect national wealth?
Economic growth depends on equitable labor treatment.