Abstract

Adam Smith and Henry Thoreau, renowned for their distinctive economic theories, share intriguing parallels despite differing perspectives on wealth. While Smith and Thoreau diverge in their conceptualization of wealth, both underscore the profound connection between affluence, well-being, and personal development. Their mutual wariness of excessive wealth accumulation unites them in a shared concern for the consequences of unchecked prosperity. This paper delves into the economic theories of Smith and Thoreau, exploring the common thread linking individual freedom, wealth, and labor while illuminating the divergent outcomes stemming from their unique interpretations of this relationship. The analysis incorporates key concepts such as the invisible hand, division of labor, and voluntary poverty, shedding light on the pivotal role of societal and individual progress in the ideologies of these two intellectual giants. Through this exploration, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the nuanced interplay between economic philosophy, individual autonomy, and social advancement in the works of Smith and Thoreau.