This great increase of the quantity of work which, in consequence of the division of labour, the same number of people are capable of performing, is owing to three different circumstances; first, to the increase of dexterity in every particular workman; secondly, to the saving of the time which is commonly lost in passing from one species of work to another; and lastly, to the invention of a great number of machines which facilitate and abridge labour, and enable one man to do the work of many.
Adam SmithGreat nations are never impoverished by private, though they sometimes are by public prodigality and misconduct.
Adam SmithIt is the natural effect of improvement, however, to diminish gradually the real price of almost all manufactures.
Adam SmithTo feel much for others and little for ourselves, that to restrain our selfish, and to indulge our benevolent affections, constitutes the perfection of human nature.
Adam Smith