How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
But as [the monopoly] obstructs the natural increase of capital, it tends rather to diminish than to increase the sum total of the revenue which the inhabitants of the country derive from the profits of stock. (4.7.38)
One of the greatest threats to a productive and competitive market is a monopoly. The problem is that sometimes monopolies happen even if the government keeps its hand off the economy. So what then? Do you just let the monopoly ruin the economy or do you intervene and provide support to competitors?
Quote #8
It is unnecessary, I imagine, to observe, how contrary such regulations are to the boasted liberty of the subject, of which we affect to be so very jealous; but which, in this case, is so plainly sacrificed to the futile interests of our merchants and manufacturers. (4.8.6)
Smith believes that government interference with the economy usually benefits a small group of private people while messing things up for everyone else.