A New Look at Adam Smith

Abstract

The question of whether at present Smith is of any importance for economic analysis is dealt with. The attempts of a number of authors to reach a new interpretation of Smith are examined. The emphasis is on the argument on which the decision to come to a reorientation on Smith would be based. Reasons are given for why the current Smith interpretation might be disqualified as an anachronism. Finally, on the basis of a number of specific passages from The Wealth of Nations, there is a particularisation in the questions one might justly ask regarding the current interpretation of Smith′s economic thought.

Citation

Peil, J. (1989), "A New Look at Adam Smith", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 16 No. 1, pp. 52-72. https://doi.org/10.1108/EUM0000000000438