An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations - Softcover

Adam Smith

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0226763749 ISBN 13: 9780226763743

Publisher: University of Chicago Press, 1977

Synopsis

Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations was recognized as a landmark of human thought upon its publication in 1776. As the first scientific argument for the principles of political economy, it is the point of departure for all subsequent economic thought. Smith's theories of capital accumulation, growth, and secular change, among others, continue to be influential in modern economics.

This reprint of Edwin Cannan's definitive 1904 edition of The Wealth of Nations includes Cannan's famous introduction, notes, and a full index, as well as a new preface written especially for this edition by the distinguished economist George J. Stigler. Mr. Stigler's preface will be of value for anyone wishing to see the contemporary relevance of Adam Smith's thought.

About this title

From the Inside Flap:

The Wealth of Nations
by Adam Smith

It is symbolic that Adam Smith?s masterpiece of economic analysis, The Wealth of Nations, was first published in 1776, the same year as the Declaration of Independence.

In his book, Smith fervently extolled the simple yet enlightened notion that individuals are fully capable of setting and regulating prices for their own goods and services. He argued passionately in favor of free trade, yet stood up for the little guy. The Wealth of Nations provided the first--and still the most eloquent--integrated description of the workings of a market economy.

The result of Smith?s efforts is a witty, highly readable work of genius filled with prescient theories that form the basis of a thriving capitalist system. This unabridged edition offers the modern reader a fresh look at a timeless and seminal work that revolutionized the way governments and individuals view the creation and dispersion of wealth--and that continues to influence our economy right up to the present day.

From the Back Cover:

The Wealth Of Nations was recognized as a landmark of human though upon its publication in 1776. As the first scientific argument for the principles of political economy, it is the point of departure for all subsequent economic thought.

About this edition

• Publisher: University of Chicago Press
• Publication date: 1977
• ISBN 10: 0226763749
• ISBN 13: 9780226763743
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 1152
• Editor: Edwin Cannan