Meaning of life quote from Adam Smith (Edinburgh)

"The difference between the most dissimilar characters, between a philosopher and a common street porter, seems to arise not so much from nature, as from habit, custom, and education."

Adam Smith, age 0 (1723 - 1790)

Edinburgh, Scotland

April 14, 2026

This perspective on the meaning of life comes from Adam Smith, based in Edinburgh, Scotland. As a renowned thinker (1723 - 1790), their words continue to inspire people around the world.

Related Perspectives

"Reason is, and ought only to be the slave of the passions, and can never pretend to any other office than to serve and obey them."

— David Hume, 0, Edinburgh, Scotland

"The real and effectual discipline which is exercised over a workman is not that of his master, but that of his customers."

— Adam Smith, 0, Edinburgh, Scotland

"A wise man proportions his belief to the evidence."

— David Hume, 0, Edinburgh, Scotland

"The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet."

— Aristotle, 0, Athens, Greece

Explore More

Quotes from Scotland

Discover more perspectives from this region

Perspectives from people in their Under 20

See how age shapes life's meaning

All Quotes

Browse the full collection of perspectives

View World Map

See all quotes on the interactive globe