Why did Adam Smith support public works and public education?

While Adam Smith is widely recognized for advocating laissez-faire principles and criticizing government interference in the economy, he did not advocate for a complete absence of government. Instead, he believed that government had specific, essential roles to play in society, particularly regarding public works and education.

Smith’s support for these areas was rooted in his concern for the long-term health of society and the individual. He observed that the division of labour—which he identified as the primary driver of productivity and economic growth—could lead to the intellectual degradation of workers. He noted that a person performing repetitive, specialized tasks all day could become as "stupid and ignorant as it is possible for a human being to become."12

To counter these negative social consequences, Smith viewed public education as a necessary intervention to maintain an alert and capable citizenry. Similarly, he supported public works that were essential for the functioning of a commercial society but might not be profitable for private individuals to undertake. These roles were consistent with his broader view that government should facilitate the conditions necessary for a system of "natural liberty" to thrive, rather than catering to the monopolistic interests of merchants and manufacturers.12