Adam Smith and The Wealth of Nations in Spain: A History of Reception, Dissemination, Adaptation and Application, 1777-1840

Adam Smith's An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations was the product of the Scottish Enlightenment and spread across Europe. This book examines the reception, adaptation, interpretation, and application of Smith's central concepts from 1777 to 1840, shedding new light on the role of France as an intermediate step, the methods of dissemination, and the political interpretations of the book. It is a significant contribution to the literature on the reception of Smith's Wealth of Nations, studies of the Spanish Enlightenment, and history of economic thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Adam Smith's An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations stands as a remarkable testament to the rich tradition of the Scottish Enlightenment, yet its impact extended far beyond the boundaries of Scotland. The publication of this seminal work in 1776 sparked a global sensation, captivating readers across Europe. This comprehensive exploration delves into the intricate journey of Smith's ideas, tracing their evolution from their Scottish origins to their widespread reception in peninsular Spain. Through meticulous reconstruction, the book sheds light on the diverse ways in which Smith's central concepts were received, adapted, interpreted, and applied during a period spanning from 1777 to 1840.

In the context of recent methodological advancements in the history of economic thought and the studies on the late Spanish Enlightenment and early Liberalism, this book addresses a series of significant gaps and issues in the historiography. Specifically, it offers fresh perspectives on the role of France as a crucial intermediary in the spread of ideas from Britain southward. The analysis draws upon a wealth of sources, including translations, handwritten materials, book reviews, syntheses, summaries, plagiarism, and rebuttals. A wide range of dissemination methods, including the printing press, periodicals, parliamentary debates, academic chairs, and societies, are explored. The contributions of individual translators and agents are given due prominence, highlighting their crucial role in transmitting Smith's ideas across languages and cultures. Moreover, the book delves into the political interpretations of the Wealth of Nations and examines how it was incorporated into the work of Spanish economists in the decades following its publication.

This groundbreaking work not only contributes significantly to the literature on the reception of Smith's Wealth of Nations but also sheds light on the broader studies of the Spanish Enlightenment and the history of economic thought. It stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Smith's ideas and their profound impact on the development of economic thought and society.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367716011