Books

Adam Smith - Wealth of Nations - 1776, First Dublin Edition (3 Volumes) A true gem for collectors and historians, this is the extremely rare First Dublin Edition of Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations, published in 1776 shortly after the groundbreaking first London edition. This complete set of three octavo volumes is increasingly hard to find, making it a highly desirable acquisition for any serious collection. The books are bound in full contemporary calf, with gilt titles on all volumes. While the bindings show expected signs of age, including some discoloration and minor wear to the joints and spines, they remain sturdy and intact, with the interior remarkably clean. Each volume features the signature of Sir Richard Frankland, Baronet of Ashgrove, adding a notable provenance to this distinguished set. Smith's work sparked a revolution in political economy, advocating for free trade, market-driven pricing, and limited government intervention. With its arguments still shaping modern economic thought, this edition holds immense historical importance. It is extremely hard to find on the market today, especially in such good condition, and its historical context and significance make it a must-have for serious collectors of rare books or works of economic history.

"The Wealth of Nations" is a seminal work by the Scottish economist and philosopher Adam Smith, published in 1776. It is considered one of the foundational texts of modern economics and a cornerstone in understanding the principles of capitalism and free-market economies. Smith's primary focus is to analyze the nature and causes of the wealth of nations. He introduces the concept of the "invisible hand," arguing that individuals pursuing their self-interest in a competitive market inadvertently contribute to the overall economic well-being of society. Smith illustrates how the division of labor leads to increased productivity and efficiency within industries, consequently fostering economic growth. He emphasizes that specialization allows workers to become more skilled and efficient at their tasks, leading to higher output. Central to Smith's ideas is the notion of free trade and the benefits it brings. He advocates for minimal government intervention in economic affairs, believing that markets left to operate freely tend to regulate themselves through the forces of supply and demand. However, Smith also acknowledges the importance of certain governmental roles, such as providing public goods, maintaining infrastructure, enforcing contracts, and protecting society from external threats. Smith criticizes mercantilism, the prevailing economic system of his time, which emphasized accumulating wealth through a positive balance of trade and a strong focus on exporting while limiting imports. He argues that this approach is counterproductive and advocates for free trade, stating that a nation's wealth is not solely measured by its stock of gold and silver but by the productivity and living standards of its people. Furthermore, Smith discusses the role of wages, profits, and rent in the economy, addressing factors influencing each and their impacts on economic development. He delves into the relationship between economic growth, capital accumulation, and technological progress, highlighting the significance of innovation and investment in driving long-term prosperity. In essence, "The Wealth of Nations" provides a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms underlying economic systems, advocating for free markets, individual liberty, and limited government intervention as the pillars for generating wealth and fostering societal advancement. Its influence extends across various fields, shaping economic thought and policy for centuries to come.