Consumption is the sole end and purpose of all production; and the interest of the producer ought to be attended to, only so far as it may be necessary for promoting that of the consumer.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Production exists solely to serve consumption, and producers' interests matter only insofar as they help consumers.
- In plain terms
- Making things is for using them; producer needs matter only if they help consumers.
- What can you take from it?
- Consumers' needs should drive production efforts.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who should drive production goals?
- Are producer interests always secondary?
Another view
It may undervalue producer sustainability and innovation incentives.
More from Adam Smith
What is prudence in the conduct of every private family can scarce be folly in that of a great kingdom.
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