Adam Smith’s masterpiece, Wealth of Nations, was first published in 1776, is the foundation of modern economic thought and remains the single most important account of the rise of, and the principles behind, modern capitalism.
Written in clear and incisive prose, The Wealth of Nations articulates the concepts indispensable to an understanding of contemporary society; and Robert Reich’s new Introduction for this edition both clarifies Smith’s analyses and illuminates his overall relevance to the world in which we live.
As Reich writes, “Smith’s mind ranged over issues as fresh and topical today as they were in the late eighteenth century–jobs, wages, politics, government, trade, education, business, and ethics.”
This is not an easy read, but the concepts are valuable, and while many economic “experts” claim to know this book, their actions do not speak to the concepts found in the wealth of nations.
I do not think education is complete without reading this book at least once.
This book should sit on every self reliance advocates bookshelf, next to the Bible, Blackstone’s law, and 52 Prepper projects.
I’m kidding about the 52 prepper projects. I think I would put an Audel’s handbook up there instead. Its pretty useful as a reference.