“Virtue is more to be feared than vice, because its excesses are not subject to the regulation of conscience. Such is the nature of a growing economy.”

— Adam Smith

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“Virtue is more to be feared than vice, because its excesses are not subject to the regulation of conscience. Such is the nature of a growing economy.”

(June 16 , 1723 -- July 17 , 1790)
Origin: Scottish
Known for: Economist
Meaning
This profound observation from Adam Smith highlights the essential nature of self-interest and structural incentives in a functioning society. Anyone actively striving to overcome economic misunderstandings or establish a legacy of genuine industry will benefit greatly from this mindset. This directly applies to moments of profound market failure, where deliberate, logical persistence typically overrides the natural human urge to yield to panic. His entire philosophy as a pioneering thinker is built upon this intellectual foundation, proving that rational self-interest often benefits the collective.
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Adam Smith

Adam Smith was a Scottish economist. Pioneer of modern economics. Their insights on success, discipline and long-term thinking are frequently shared by entrepreneurs and professionals.

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This quote is attributed to Adam Smith. Adam Smith was a Scottish economist. Pioneer of modern economics. Their insights on success, discipline and long-term thinking are frequently shared by entrepreneurs and professionals.

This profound observation from Adam Smith highlights the essential nature of self-interest and structural incentives in a functioning society. Anyone actively striving to overcome economic misunderstandings or establish a legacy of genuine industry will benefit greatly from this mindset. This directly applies to moments of profound market failure, where deliberate, logical persistence typically overrides the natural human urge to yield…

The wording and attribution are documented at en.wikiquote.org. Use the original source linked on this page to verify the exact phrasing and context.

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