Adam Smiths Contributions to Modern Free Market Economics...

Among economists, it is said Adam Smith is one of the main contributors to modern free market economics. His thoughts attacked mercantilism which was the prevalent form of government at the time. His works provided systematic rationales in the subjects of capitalism, free markets, and limited government intervention. His most popular books changed history because without them, many of these thoughts and ideas would not be so prevalent. Smith is regarded and cited as the father of modern economics. With this said, not all of Smith’s ideas were in agreement with laissez-faire. Although Adam Smith pioneered many ideas on modern free market economics, Smith cannot be depicted as a defender of laissez-faire because of his ideas on†¦show more content†¦It is said Smith’s mother led him to his scholarly efforts. By 1740, Smith had developed a passion for freedom in that personal freedom and liberty will lead to the best possible outcome. Because of this, Smith is often regarded as an essential proponent in laissez-faire. By 1748, Smith was teaching and giving lectures at Edinburgh. It was here that Smith first established his economic thoughts about freedom and liberty. By his late 20’s, Smith had already developed the passion for liberty, reason, and free speech. In 1759, Smith published The Theory of Moral Sentiments. This book encapsulated his lectures he presented at Glasgow. The subject of the book included â€Å"how human morality depends on sympathy between agent and spectator, or the individual and other members of society.† (Nation Master, 2010) Smith divided his book into two categories which included: the nature of morality and the motive of morality. The book was the first of Smith’s to include the term invisible hand, which would turn out to be one of his best contributions to modern economics. Wealth of Nations Although his previous works and ideas contributed to Smith’s influence on modern economics, it was not till he wrote An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations, commonly referred as The Wealth of Nations, that Smith’s ideas were considered the groundwork for modern economics. Written in 1776, the book’sShow MoreRelatedThe Biography Of Adam Smith1505 Words   |  7 PagesThe Biography of Adam Smith Adam Smith was born in Kirkcaldy, Scotland in the year 1923, and died in the year 1790 at the age of 67 (Stewart, 1861). His exact date of birth is unknown but was baptized on 5th June 1723. His father was a prosecutor, advocate, and solicitor but passed on two months after his birth, leaving his mother to bring him up. His mother, Margaret Douglas, played a great role in his upbringing, especially in education. 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