What is prudence in the conduct of every private family can scarce be folly in that of a great kingdom.

The property which every man has in his own labour, as it is the original foundation of all other property, so it is the most sacred and inviolable.

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.

The subjects of every state ought to contribute towards the support of the government, as nearly as possible, in proportion to their respective abilities.

The statesman who should attempt to direct private people in what manner they ought to employ their capitals would not only load himself with most unnecessary attention but assume an authority which could safely be trusted to no council and senate whatever, and which would nowhere be so dangerous as in the hands of man who have folly and presumption enough to fancy himself fit to exercise it.

What can be added to the happiness of the man who is in health, who is out of debt, and has a clear conscience?

The proprietor of stock is necessarily a citizen of the world, and is not necessarily attached to any particular country.