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# Progressive State of Society

## Definition

The condition of a society that is advancing to the further acquisition of riches, rather than having acquired its full complement, which Smith argues is the happiest and most comfortable state for the labouring poor and all orders of society.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 8

## Context

Identified as the optimal condition for wages and general prosperity, contrasting with the dull stationary state and the miserable declining state.

## Economic Domain

General Theory

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