873 B
873 B
Three Duties of the Sovereign
Definition
The three fundamental responsibilities of government under the system of natural liberty: protecting society from violence and invasion of other societies, protecting every member from injustice or oppression by other members, and erecting and maintaining certain public works and institutions that individuals cannot profitably provide.
Source Chapter
Book IV, Chapter 9
Context
Smith outlines the limited role of government in his preferred economic system, arguing that once systems of preference and restraint are removed, the sovereign's duties become clear and limited to defense, justice, and certain public works that benefit society as a whole.
Economic Domain
Regulation