Nothing in the quote proves your actual argument. What you said is: > A core classic liberal belief, arguably the core belief, is that nothing should stand in

Nothing in the quote proves your actual argument. What you said is: > A core classic liberal belief, arguably the core belief, is that nothing should stand in the way of individuals being able to secure their own economic self-interest. You literally said 'nothing'. It is of course true that they believed that self-interested individuals seeking voluntary trade to improve their self interest within a legal framework would be beneficial for society. Note how Adam Smith never says 'its amazing to steal as much money as possible because following your self interest is good for society'. I suggest you read Adam Smiths actual work, The Theory of Moral Sentiments.