Enlightenment economists

Enlightenment economists are thinkers from the 17th and 18th centuries who studied how economies work and believed that individuals pursuing their own interests could lead to overall societal benefit. They emphasized reason, free markets, and limited government intervention, arguing that economic freedom fosters innovation, growth, and prosperity. Key figures include Adam Smith, who introduced ideas like the 'invisible hand,' suggesting that self-interest unintentionally benefits society by promoting efficient resource allocation. Their ideas laid the groundwork for modern economics, promoting the view that economic and political freedoms are interconnected and essential for progress.