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Who was Adam Smith?

Begin here to learn about this key figure of the Scottish Enlightenment--a philosopher and lecturer in rhetoric who is now most famous as the father of modern economics.

Essays by Theme

Explore our collection of original essays, available ONLY at AdamSmithWorks

Just Sentiments

Book Reviews

Biographical

Moral Philosophy

Political Economy

Jurisprudence

Theology and Religion

French Enlightenment

Scottish Enlightenment

1776 and the American Founding

Arts & Culture

An Animal That Trades

A five-part short video series on the life and contemporary relevance of Adam Smith.

Part 1: The Invisible Hand



The invisible hand is one of Smith's most well-known turns of phrase, yet he uses it but once in each book. So what does it mean, and why does this concept remain important today?

Part 2: The Free Market


"Man is an animal that bargains," said Smith. Our commercial interactions help us further our individual interests and civilize us at the same time. How is the free market necessary for Smith's "system of natural liberty?"

Part 3: Division of Labor



Smith's discussions of the division of labor, while they might seem like common sense today, were radical in his time. Find out more, and consider its enduring relevance today.

Part 4: Sympathy

From The Theory of Moral Sentiments to modern neuroscience and experimental economics, explore how our sociality makes us naturally inclined to be concerned for the well-being of others.

Part 5: The Role of Authority

Peace, easy taxes, and a tolerable administration of justice... These are the aims of Smith's ideal government. Our society needs a state, and Smith offers meaningful guidance on how to evaluate its role.

Full Feature

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Smith Profiles

Smith's Home

Butcher, Brewer, Baker

Space Smith

Regulation of Conscience

Suggested Reading: ASW Bibliographies

Introduction to the Scottish Enlightenment

The best introductory books on the Scottish Enlightenment, compiled by the ASW Advisory Board.


December 16, 2019

Introduction to Adam Smith

The best introductory books on Adam Smith, compiled by the ASW Advisory Board.

August 1, 2019

Adam Smith as Political Economist

A selection of books and journal articles to explore Adam Smith's work in political economy.


December 12, 2019

Adam Smith and Jurisprudence

A selection of books and journal articles to explore Adam Smith's work in jurisprudence.

December 16, 2019

Adam Smith and Spontaneous Order

A selection of books and journal articles to explore the ides of spontaneous order in Adam Smith's work.

December 16, 2019