Lecture d'oeuvre : Reading Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations

This course aims to study "An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations" by Adam Smith. The course will offer a philosophical reading of the book which aims to interrogate Smith's conception of the commercial society. The course will be organized around several themes: political economy; social science; commerce; colonies; ethics/economy/politics; peace and war.

Each class session will be devoted to the commentary and analysis of several chapters. This course is a heavy reading class which will allow students to develop their critical thinking and explore at their best their ability to articulate conceptual analysis, historical analysis and critical thinking.

The two last class session will offer the opportunity to discuss Smith in regard to Bentham's reading and understanding of The Wealth of Nations.