The Wealth of Nations Warfare Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #10

The first duty of the sovereign, that of protecting the society from the violence and invasion of other independent societies, can be performed only by means of a military force. (5.1.1)

Smith believes that the only way a society can protect itself is through military force. Free trade is all well and good, but Smith knows that every now and then you're going to get violent conflict.