Dr. King
Human Nature and the Social Order II
June 6, 2008
“The Wealth of Nations” Adam Smith, the author of “The Wealth of Nations”, was a Scottish moral philosopher during the Industrial Revolution who was inspired by his surroundings to write about the field of economics. Being a man of intellect on various types of philosophical views, Smith was able to portray his passionate feelings about political thought through his well-written works. While publishing his book, Smith became known as the “father of modern economics”. He was given this honorary title due to his strong determination of trying to understand how human nature impacts the social order. Smith was able to use several types of rhetoric styles, such as particular word choices and language, in order to captivate the attention of various types of readers. By doing this, Smith aimed to not only connect his works to economists and writers but also to large bodies of government. Believing strongly in the Laissez-faire government encouraged Smith to conclude that self-interest was able to utilize the social framework of society. He used historical context to demonstrate how society has transformed from a futile system and into a model of capitalism. In “The Wealth of Nations”, Smith formulated the idea that market economics impacts the nature of social order through free trade, pursuit of self-interest, and division of labor; therefore, causing individuals to become unaware that they are not only impacting the free market through their personal ethics and economic actions, but also the society. “The Wealth of Nations” is Adam Smith’s magnum opus (greatest work), which helps illustrate how society coordinates its economic affairs without losing its value. He begins to guide his audience into understanding how society has gained independence from its prehistoric obstacles, which later establishes a newer form of self-determination based on social interaction. Using the theme of historic