An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations.

£875 · Offered by Shapero Rare Books

early critical edition An early single-volume critical edition of Smith's masterpiece. The editor J.R. McCulloch achieved note as the first professor of political economy at University College, London and for his works on statistical analysis. The work opens with a short biography of Smith, and an 'Introductory Discourse' giving a history of the study of political economy. A cornerstone text in the development of modern economic theory and political philosophy, the Wealth of Nations 'begins with the thought that labour is the source from which a nation derives what is necessary to it. The improvement of the division of labour is the measure of productivity and in it lies the human propensity to barter and exchange. The Wealth of Nations ends with a history of economic development, a definitive onslaught on the mercantile system, and some prophetic speculations on the limits of economic control' (PMM). 'A new edition, corrected throughout and greatly enlarged'; 8vo (23 x 15 cm); two engraved plates including portrait frontispiece, slightly soiled, contemporary female ownership inscription in pen to half-title, text slightly browned; modern calf backed russet cloth boards, vellum tips, contrasting red morocco lettering-piece to spine, fore-edge uncut, very good; [8], lxiii, [1], 648pp. Tribe 151.

• Binding: Hardcover

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