Born in 1723 in Kirkcaldy, (1) , this individual is widely regarded as the “Father of Modern Economics.” A brilliant thinker and philosopher, they contributed profoundly to the fields of political (2) and moral philosophy. After studying at the University of Glasgow and later at Oxford, they became known for their intellectual rigour and groundbreaking (3) .
In 1759, they published The Theory of Moral Sentiments, a (4) work exploring ethics, human behavior, and the role of sympathy in society. However, their most famous and influential (5) came in 1776 with the publication of The Wealth of Nations, formally titled An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. This work laid the foundation for classical economics and introduced (6) concepts that remain central to economic thought.
Among these ideas was the concept of the “(7) hand,” which argued that individuals pursuing their own self-interest could unintentionally promote the public good through (8) mechanisms. They also analyzed the division of labor, trade, and the function of markets, advocating for limited government intervention in economic affairs while emphasizing the importance of competition and efficiency.
Though they valued (9) markets, they were also concerned with issues like justice, education, and public goods, which they believed required state involvement. Their work not only shaped economic policy in their era but also continues to (10) modern economics, politics, and philosophy. They remain a towering figure in intellectual history, celebrated for their profound insights into the forces that drive human prosperity.
__________
Now check your answers:
Who is this baiography about?
If you don't know their identity, click:
▶ Click to show the transcript and the correct answers.
Born in 1723 in Kirkcaldy, (1) Scotland, this individual is widely regarded as the “Father of Modern Economics.” A brilliant thinker and philosopher, they contributed profoundly to the fields of political (2) economy and moral philosophy. After studying at the University of Glasgow and later at Oxford, they became known for their intellectual rigour and groundbreaking (3) ideas.
In 1759, they published The Theory of Moral Sentiments, a (4) seminal work exploring ethics, human behavior, and the role of sympathy in society. However, their most famous and influential (5) contribution came in 1776 with the publication of The Wealth of Nations, formally titled An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. This work laid the foundation for classical economics and introduced (6) key concepts that remain central to economic thought.
Among these ideas was the concept of the “(7) invisible hand,” which argued that individuals pursuing their own self-interest could unintentionally promote the public good through (8) market mechanisms. They also analyzed the division of labor, trade, and the function of markets, advocating for limited government intervention in economic affairs while emphasizing the importance of competition and efficiency.
Though they valued (9) free markets, they were also concerned with issues like justice, education, and public goods, which they believed required state involvement. Their work not only shaped economic policy in their era but also continues to (10) influence modern economics, politics, and philosophy. They remain a towering figure in intellectual history, celebrated for their profound insights into the forces that drive human prosperity.
▶ Click to show questions for discussion.
What were Adam Smith’s key contributions to economics, and how did his ideas in *The Wealth of Nations* shape modern economic theory?
How did Adam Smith’s concept of the "invisible hand" explain the functioning of markets and the role of self-interest in economic systems?
What role did Smith’s work play in developing the principles of capitalism, and how did he address issues such as division of labor and free trade?
How did Adam Smith’s ideas in *The Theory of Moral Sentiments* complement or contrast with his later work in *The Wealth of Nations*?
What is the lasting impact of Adam Smith’s economic theories on contemporary economics, politics, and global trade policies?