Adam Smith on the Origins and Consequences of Human Action in Society and Economy

16 Pages Posted: 31 Jul 2024

See all articles by Vernon L. Smith

Vernon L. Smith

Chapman University - Economic Science Institute; Chapman University School of Law

Date Written: July 31, 2024

Abstract

The year 2023 in human intellectual history marked the 300th anniversary of the birth of Adam Smith (1723-1790), Scottish Enlightenment scholar par excellence who shaped the Western sweep of free liberal migrants and their national constitutions that have influenced so much of the world. Smith's own spirit was free, inspired others, and articulated a homegrown response that redefined the British colonial policy that helped make America. This essay considers Smith's intellectual trajectory, his theories of sociability, and his wit.

Keywords: history of economic thought, Adam Smith, classical economics

JEL Classification: N00, B12

Suggested Citation

Smith, Vernon L., Adam Smith on the Origins and Consequences of Human Action in Society and Economy (July 31, 2024). Capitalism & Society, Volume 18, Issue 1 (2024), Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4912089

Vernon L. Smith (Contact Author)

Chapman University - Economic Science Institute ( email )

1 University Drive
Orange, CA 92866
United States
714-628-2830 (Phone)

Chapman University School of Law ( email )

One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866-1099
United States

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