Minding the Gaps: Reality, Theory, and Policy in Adam Smith.

The article explains Adam Smith's book "The Wealth of Nations" as a theoretical treatise and political tract. Topics discussed include the gap between political economic analysis and practical matters of politics or economic policy, Smith's liberal plan and his concern with political feasibility, th...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Independent Review Vol. 30; no. 4; pp. 591 - 602
Autor principal: MATSON, ERIK W.
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: Independent Institute Spring2026
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Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:The article explains Adam Smith's book "The Wealth of Nations" as a theoretical treatise and political tract. Topics discussed include the gap between political economic analysis and practical matters of politics or economic policy, Smith's liberal plan and his concern with political feasibility, the gap between economic theory, policy and reality, sociological and psychological dimensions of theory, the merchant theory of balance of trade, and sociological aspects of inquiry.