5 Main Criticisms against Wealth Definition of Adam Smith
This definition was criticised on several grounds as follows: Image Source: getdebtfreewealth.com (i) Restricted Meaning of Wealth: In Adam Smith’s wealth-oriented definition the meaning of wealth is restricted. Only material goods were considered as wealth. Non-material goods like services of doctors, lawyers and teachers were not considered as wealth. This restricted meaning of wealth has restricted the scope of study of Economics. (ii) Neglect Human Welfare: ADVERTISEMENTS: During the later part of the 19th century, the economists started realizing the humanistic character of economics. It was visualized that wealth is only a means to an end, the end being human welfare. Therefore, some economist severely condemned Adam Smith wealth definition which gives too much importance on wealth and completely ignored human welfare. (iii) The Concept of economic man: The concept…