Knowledge, Social Institutions and the Division of Labour gives rise to a new and richer institutional analysis of the economy centred around the analysis of language, the division of labour and social knowledge. It is in this perspective that the economic analysis of institutions comes to be associated with the study of civil society, or with the broad framework of communication and coordination behind the interaction of individuals in economic and non-economic spheres. This fascinating book is divided into three parts beginning with the issue of the development of science as an aspect of the division of labour, starting from methodological problems on the communication of scientific knowledge. The volume goes on to explore issues on the moral bases of social interaction and, more particularly, of commercial society before ending with in depth analyses of questions on the division of labour, social institutions and the diffusion of knowledge in society.

The Economics of James Steuart reveals the particular importance of Steuart's work on monetary issues and highlights ways in which he prepared the ground for a new conception of economic relations. Featuring the work of an international team of leading scholars, this volume will be essential reading for those studying or researching the history of economic thought.

The Economics of James Steuart reveals the particular importance of Steuart's work on monetary issues and highlights ways in which he prepared the ground for a new conception of economic relations. Featuring the work of an international team of leading scholars, this volume will be essential reading for those studying or researching the history of economic thought.

eBook available with sample pages: 0203443349

‘It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker, that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest’

With this landmark treatise on political economy, Adam Smith paved the way for modern capitalism, arguing that a truly free market – fired by competition yet guided as if by an ‘invisible hand’ to ensure justice and equality  – was the engine of a fair and productive society. Books I–III of the Wealth of Nations examine the ‘division of labour’ as the key to economic growth, by ensuring the interdependence of individuals within society. They also cover the origins of money, the importance of wages, profit, rent and stocks. Smith’s work laid the foundations of economic theory in general and ‘classical’ economics in particular, but the real sophistication of his analysis derives from the fact that it also encompasses a combination of ethics, philosophy and history to create a vast panorama of society.

This edition contains an analytical introduction offering an in-depth discussion of Smith as an economist and social scientist, as well as a preface, further reading and explanatory notes.

The Wealth of Nations Books IV-V are also published in Penguin Classics.

Smith's The Wealth of Nations was the first comprehensive treatment of political economy. Originally delivered in the form of lectures at Glasgow, the book's publication in 1776 co-incided with America's Declaration of Independence. These volumes include Smith's assessment of the mercantile system, his advocacy of the freedom of commerce and industry, and his famous prophecy that "America will be one of the foremost nations of the world".

Her mother is killed in the London Blitz. Her father is lost at sea whilst serving in the Merchant Navy. Approaching her 16th birthday, Angie Bolton faces life without the guidance of her parents. But her father has left her a legacy. A legacy of dreams they shared and it proves to be her driving force as she strives to carve a road for herself against a background of the aftermath of war. She is disillusioned with life in London with Uncle Cyril, whom she detests, and Edwina Ferrie, his housekeeper, whom she distrusts. A chance encounter with Lynn Arnold opens a door to luxury and a world to which Angie doesn't feel she belongs. It is a world that offers fun, love and tragedy in equal measure, but could it also hold the key to her fulfilling her aspirations? ON THE SWING OF ONE STAR is a tale that captures the imagination as it tackles the complexities faced by an adolescent growing up quickly in a changing environment. Inevitably, mistakes are made and lessons learned and many battles of conscience fought but, ultimately, this is a moving account of a young girl's endeavours to let go of her late father by achieving their shared dreams.