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Adam Smith and the poor: A textual analysis

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  • Martin, Christopher

Abstract

Scholars of classical economics have largely rejected the popular view of Adam Smith as an apologist for big business indifferent to the plight of the poor. To test and ultimately vindicate this consensus, I attempt to tabulate all mentions of the poor in Smith's published works in which their well-being is under discussion. For each such appearance I assess his attitude toward such well-being, as well as where his sympathies lie should there be a conflict between the poor on one side and the rich and powerful on the other. The textual search strongly supports the idea that Smith was indeed partial to workers and the poor, although this judgment requires that the reader enter into Smith's patterns of thought about property rights, economic growth, and the system of natural liberty.

Suggested Citation

  • Martin, Christopher, 2021. "Adam Smith and the poor: A textual analysis," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 184(C), pages 837-849.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:184:y:2021:i:c:p:837-849
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2020.08.035
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Carl Menger, 2016. "The Social Theories of Classical Political Economy and Modern Economic Policy," Econ Journal Watch, Econ Journal Watch, vol. 13(3), pages 467–489-4, September.
    2. Klein, Daniel B., 2014. "Knowledge and Coordination: A Liberal Interpretation," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199355327, Decembrie.
    3. Martin, Christopher S., 2015. "Equity, Besides: Adam Smith And The Utility Of Poverty," Journal of the History of Economic Thought, Cambridge University Press, vol. 37(4), pages 559-581, December.
    4. Emma Rothschild, 1992. "Adam Smith and conservative economics," Economic History Review, Economic History Society, vol. 45(1), pages 74-96, February.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Mikko Arevuo, 2025. "Adam Smith’s Implicit Theory of Distributive Justice," Athens Journal of Business & Economics, Athens Institute for Education and Research (ATINER), vol. 11(1), pages 39-50, January.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Adam Smith; Labor; Workers; Poverty; Role of government;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • B12 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought through 1925 - - - Classical (includes Adam Smith)
    • B31 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought: Individuals - - - Individuals

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