Adam Smith, born on June 16, 1723, in Kirkcaldy, Scotland, was a prominent philosopher and economist whose ideas laid the foundations for modern economic theory. He is best known for his seminal works that explore the nature of commerce, morality, and the functioning of economies. Smith's most notable works include "The Wealth of Nations," published in 1776, which is considered a cornerstone of classical economics, and "The Theory of Moral Sentiments," released in 1759, which delves into the moral underpinnings of human behavior.

Smith's early life was marked by a keen intellect and a thirst for knowledge. He attended the University of Glasgow at the age of 14, where he studied moral philosophy under the influential thinker Francis Hutcheson. This formative experience shaped his understanding of human behavior and ethics, which would later inform his economic theories. After completing his studies, Smith spent time in France, where he was exposed to the ideas of the Enlightenment and met various intellectuals, including the philosopher Voltaire.

Smith's literary career was characterized by a careful analysis of both economic and moral philosophy. In "The Theory of Moral Sentiments," he argued that human beings are inherently social creatures, driven by empathy and the desire for approval from others. This work laid the groundwork for his later economic theories, where he posited that individuals pursuing their self-interest inadvertently contribute to the greater good of society. "The Wealth of Nations" expanded on these ideas, promoting the concept of the "invisible hand" that guides free markets and the importance of competition.

In his personal life, Adam Smith remained largely private. He never married and spent much of his later years in Edinburgh, where he held a position as a professor of moral philosophy at the University of Glasgow. He passed away on July 17, 1790, in Edinburgh. Smith's contributions to economics and moral philosophy have had a lasting impact, influencing generations of thinkers and shaping the discourse on capitalism and human behavior. His legacy endures, making him one of the most significant figures in Western thought.