The Wealth of Nations

by Adam Smith
The Wealth of Nations cover
Good Books rating 3.81
Business and Economics
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Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99 Hardback • £11.99–£30.00
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Technical
  • ID: 1068
  • Added: 2025-09-24
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9786558943259
  • Publisher: Lebooks Editora
  • Published: 2024-03-21
  • Formats: 86
  • Reviews: 4

The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith is a seminal work that delves into the theoretical and empirical aspects of commercial societies, offering insights into the division of labor, value, income distribution, and capital accumulation. Published in 1776, the same year as the Declaration of Independence, this book laid the groundwork for economic thought and has influenced thinkers across various fields, from economics to biology. /n/n Considered a turning point in economic history, The Wealth of Nations is as influential as Darwin's work on evolution. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the principles that shape modern economies and societies.

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The book's concepts are considered generally correct but simplistic, with some outdated views on colonial policy.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

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.

Citywire · 2008-04-20
groundbreaking 4.75

The book is celebrated as a groundbreaking work in economics and a great piece of literature that captured the public's attention.

The reviewer emphasizes that 'The Wealth of Nations' was a pioneering work that brought economic theory to the forefront of public consciousness. They praise its literary quality and its ability to engage a wide audience. The book is seen as a landmark in both economic thought and literature, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the subject. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book's historical and literary significance is evident throughout the review.

Quick quotes

    It was the first book on economics really to catch the public's attention, and is as much as anything else a great work of literature.

    The clarity and depth of Smith's arguments make it a compelling read even today.

    This book is not just an economic treatise but a literary masterpiece that has shaped the way we think about wealth and society.

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