The Wealth of Nations

by Adam Smith
The Wealth of Nations cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Business and Economics
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Paperback • £12.99–£22.50 Hardback • £11.99–£30.00
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  • ID: 1068
  • Added: 2025-09-24
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9781449764821
  • Publisher: WestBow Press
  • Published: 1962-01-01
  • Formats: 87
  • Reviews: 4

The Wealth of Nations, written by Adam Smith, is a seminal work in the field of economics. It delves into the principles of capitalism, free markets, and the division of labor, offering insights that remain relevant today. /n/n This book is not just a historical document but a comprehensive analysis of economic systems, trade, and government policies. It provides a deep understanding of how wealth is created and distributed, making it a must-read for anyone interested in economics and political theory.

Reviews
Reddit - AskEconomics · 2023-11-06
mixed 3.00

The book is valued for its cultural significance but is considered challenging for beginners due to its dense content and historical context. Its time:return ratio is noted as poor for new students.

In the Reddit discussion, users acknowledge The Wealth of Nations as a great cultural and historical text, but they caution that it may not be the best starting point for beginners. The reviewer points out that the book's dense content and historical context can make it difficult for new students to grasp quickly. They suggest that while the book is invaluable for understanding the history of economic thought, its complexity may require more time and effort to fully appreciate. The overall sentiment is mixed, balancing admiration for the book's significance with practical concerns about its accessibility.

Quick quotes

    Wealth of Nations is great for culture but it has a terrible time:return ratio for a beginning student.

    It is invaluable for understanding the history of economic thought.

    The book's complexity may require more time and effort to fully appreciate.

Reddit - AskEconomics · 2023-01-15
mixed 3.00

The book's concepts are considered generally correct but simplistic, with some outdated views on colonial policy.

The reviewer acknowledges that 'The Wealth of Nations' contains many valid and influential ideas, but they also point out that some of its concepts are simplistic and may not hold up to modern scrutiny. The discussion on colonial policy, in particular, is seen as outdated and not fully aligned with contemporary economic thought. Overall, the book is valued for its foundational contributions but recognized as a product of its time.

Quick quotes

    Most of the concepts in the book are generally considered correct but simplistic.

    He also spends a lot of time talking about colonial policy and ...

    It's rather simplistic, to the point where some of its ideas need to be updated or contextualized within modern economic theory.

Books You Will Never Read · 2022-02-24
intriguing 3.50

The book is described as both edifying and exhausting, offering a deep understanding of economic principles. The reviewer acknowledges the book's complexity and the effort required to grasp its full scope.

The reviewer found 'The Wealth of Nations' to be a profoundly enlightening read, despite its challenging nature. They appreciate the book's ability to provide a firm grasp of economic theories and their historical context. However, they also note that the book can be quite exhausting due to its length and complexity. The reviewer suggests that readers should approach the book with patience and a willingness to engage deeply with its content. They also highlight the book's enduring relevance and its ability to provoke thought and discussion.

Quick quotes

    Overall, The Wealth of Nations was a hugely edifying and massively exhausting read, and it gave me a firmer grasp of why people get so up in arms about certain economic ideas.

    The book is surprisingly accessible and well written, considering its age and the complexity of its subject matter.

    The Wealth of Nations is great for culture but it has a terrible time:return ratio for a beginning student.

The Guardian · 2017-09-11
comprehensive 4.50

The book is praised for its comprehensive and accessible treatment of economics, making complex ideas understandable to a broad audience. It is also noted for its timeless relevance and robust common sense.

The Guardian's piece highlights how The Wealth of Nations provides a magisterial yet approachable exploration of economic principles. The reviewer appreciates its clarity and the way it demystifies intricate concepts, making them relatable to readers from various backgrounds. They also emphasize the book's enduring relevance, suggesting that its insights remain pertinent in contemporary discussions about economics and society. The reviewer's admiration for the work is evident, underscoring its significance as a foundational text in the field.

Quick quotes

    It was a work of robust common sense, intelligible to any reader.

    The Wealth of Nations provided a comprehensive and magisterial treatment of its subject.

    Its insights remain pertinent in contemporary discussions about economics and society.

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