Adam Smith's "The Wealth of Nations"

Adam Smith’s *The Wealth of Nations* explores how economies grow and prosper. He explains that when individuals pursue their own interests—like selling goods or providing services—they unintentionally contribute to the overall well-being of society through a self-regulating "invisible hand." Smith emphasizes the importance of free markets, competition, and specialization, arguing that these promote efficiency, innovation, and wealth creation. He also discusses the roles of labor, capital, and trade, highlighting that well-functioning markets and limited government interference are key to economic prosperity. Overall, the book lays the foundation for modern economic thought on how economies operate best.