亞當·斯密（Adam Smith, 1723-1790）是經濟學的主要創立者。他於1723年齣生在蘇格蘭的剋科底，青年時就讀於牛津大學。1751年到1764年在格斯哥大學擔任哲學教授。在此期間發錶瞭他的第一部著作《道德情操論》，確立瞭他在知識界的威望。但是他的不朽名聲主要在於他在1776年發錶的偉大著作《國傢財富的性質和原因的研究》。該書一舉成功，使他在餘生中享受著榮譽和愛戴。1790年，亞當·斯密在剋科底去逝。他一生未娶，沒有子女。

Published in 1778, The Wealth of Nations was the first book on economics to catch the public's attention. It provides a recipe for national prosperity that has not been bettered since, based on small government and the freedom of citizens to act in their best interests. It reassuringly assumes no knowledge of its subject, and over 200 years on still provides valuable lessons on the fundamentals of economics. This deluxe, selected edition is a stylish keepsake from the Capstone Classics series. This edition includes: An abridged selection of all 5 books for the contemporary reader An original commentary offering new research and analysis by classic literature guru Tom Butler-Bowdon A biography and chronology of Adam Smith's life and the events surrounding the original publication of the work Today, The Wealth of Nations is still essential reading for any business or self-development library, reminding us that it is the ingenuity and drive of people, not governments, that remains the source of personal, national and global prosperity.