The necessaries of life occasion the great expense of the poor. They find it difficult to get food, and the greater part of their little revenue is spent in getting it. The luxuries and vanities of life occasion the principal expense of the rich, and a magnificent house embellishes and sets off to the best advantage all the other luxuries and vanities which they possess ... It is not very unreasonable that the rich should contribute to the public expense, not only in proportion to their revenue, but something more than in that proportion.
Adam SmithCivil government, so far as it is instituted for the security of property, is in reality instituted for the defense of the rich against the poor, or of those who have some property against those who have none at all.
Adam SmithThat the chance of gain is naturally over-valued, we may learn from the universal success of lotteries.
Adam SmithVirtue is more to be feared than vice, because its excesses are not subject to the regulation of conscience.
Adam SmithA merchant, it has been said very properly, is not necessarily the citizen of any particular country.
Adam Smith