The Wealth of Nations

by Adam Smith
The Wealth of Nations cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Business and Economics
Technical:
  • ID: 1068
  • Added: 2025-09-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-01
  • ISBN: 9780486833897
  • Publisher: Courier Dover Publications
  • Published: 2019-07-17
  • Formats: 32
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99 Hardback • £11.99–£17.99

First published in 1776, The Wealth of Nations is a seminal work on political economy by Adam Smith. It introduces the revolutionary concept that natural human self-interest leads to economic prosperity and argues passionately for free trade and against government regulations. Smith's ideas, which include the notion that individuals should set their own prices for goods and services, were groundbreaking at the time and continue to influence modern economists and politicians. Rich in historical context and philosophical insight, the book is not just an economic analysis but also a work of political philosophy. Written with wit and readability, it presents theories that form the foundation of today's capitalist system, making it a timeless and insightful read.

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.

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.

The New York Times · 2007-01-07
foundational 4.50

The book is celebrated for its clear and logical presentation of economic principles, supported by numerous examples. It is seen as a foundational work that effectively argues and proves its key points.

The New York Times review applauds The Wealth of Nations for its straightforward and logical approach to economic theory. The reviewer notes that the book's use of plain thinking and plentiful examples makes it a compelling read. They highlight how Smith's arguments are well-structured and effectively proven, making the book a cornerstone in the field of economics. The reviewer's tone is appreciative, recognizing the book's enduring influence and its ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity.

Quick quotes

    The Wealth of Nations argues three basic principles and, by plain thinking and plentiful examples, proves them.

    It is a foundational work that effectively argues and proves its key points.

    The book's use of plain thinking and plentiful examples makes it a compelling read.

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