What does Adam Smith propose about machinery in relation to productivity?

Adam Smith proposed that machinery can significantly enhance the productivity of workers by enabling them to produce more output in a given amount of time. This concept, rooted in his economic theories, emphasizes that the use of machinery allows workers to perform tasks more efficiently, thereby increasing overall productivity levels within an industry.

Smith recognized that when labor and machinery work in conjunction, the efficiency of production increases, leading to greater quantities of goods produced. This synergy allows for specialization, where workers can focus on specific tasks while machines handle the more repetitive or strenuous components of the production process. Consequently, the integration of machinery into labor-intensive tasks results in not only higher productivity but also the potential for economic growth.

The other options do not align with Smith's views. The idea that machinery should be limited contradicts the rationale behind technological advancement and producing more effectively. The suggestion that machinery replaces the need for skilled labor entirely overlooks the continued importance of skilled workers in operating and maintaining advanced machinery. Lastly, restricting machinery use to manual tasks does not account for the broader applications and benefits that technology can offer across various types of labor.