Overview
This classic life of the economist Adam Smith, by British biographer JOHN RAE (1845-1915), has been the standard backgrounder on the author of The Wealth of Nations for more than a century.First published in 1895 and astonishingly complex, this highly readable work explores all the influences on Smith's economic philosophies, from his early life in then-poor, hardscrabble Scotland to his university experiences to his life in London and friendship with Ben Franklin.
Complete with illustrative tidbits on everything from Smith's supposed helplessness in business transactions to his absentmindedness and brimming with personal letters and firsthand observations, this is an essential work for understanding the thinking of one of history's most influential economists.
Synopsis
Adam Smith is considered the father of modern economics. Smith was an 18th century Scottish moral philosopher, pioneer of political economy, and one of the key figures of the Scottish Enlightenment. Smith entered the University of Glasgow when he was fourteen and studied moral philosophy. Smith was a professor at Glasgow University. Smith wrote The Theory of Moral Sentiments and An Inquiry into Causes of the Wealth of Nations. The Theory of Moral Sentiments discusses how human morality depends on sympathy between agent and spectator, or the individual and other members of society. After his writings became well known he traveled widely lecturing in Europe.