Resentment seems to have been given us by nature for a defense, and for a defense only! It is the safeguard of justice and the security of innocence.
Adam SmithRead
Defense is superior to opulence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A strong defense is more valuable than great wealth.
Adam Smith's quote emphasizes the importance of security and stability over material wealth. It suggests that having a robust system of defense—whether it be personal, societal, or national—provides greater assurance and true value than mere opulence, which can be fleeting and vulnerable.
Themes
DefenseOpulenceSecurityWealthValue
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on national security, one might reference this quote to highlight the need for a strong military over luxury spending.
More from Adam Smith
All quotes →It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest.
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Wherever there is great property, there is great inequality.
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This is one of those cases in which the imagination is baffled by the facts.
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The real and effectual discipline which is exercised over a workman is that of his customers. It is the fear of losing their employment which restrains his frauds and corrects his negligence.
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I have never known much good done by those who affected to trade for the public good.
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