On the Wealth of Nations

Grove Press, New York, 2007. Good secondhand condition.

Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations, the book that created the field of economics, is transformed into a page-turner of global significance by America's sharpest political commentator.

'The Wealth of Nations is, without doubt a 'book that changed the world.' But it has been taking its time. Two hundred and thirty one years after publication, Adam Smith's practical truths are only beginning to be absorbed in full. Although its contents didn't make people gasp, something about The Wealth of Nations was grit in the gears of Enlightenment thinking. And that something is still there, grinding on our minds. I could feel it myself when the subject of self-interest came up. Gosh, I'm not selfish. I think about the environment and those less fortunate than me. Especially those unfortunates who don't give a hoot about pollution, global warming, and species extinction. I think about them a lot, and I hope they lose the next election. Then maybe we can get some caring and compassionate people in public office, people who aren't selfish. And let's face it, the 'lower ranks of the people' do have too much money. Look at Britney Spears . . .'

P.J. O'Rourke brings An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations zinging to life. Packed with wit and insight this extraordinary 'enquiry' demonstrates that the Wealth of Nations underpins economic debates still raging today.