250 years of ‘The Wealth of Nations’
The 250th anniversary of the publication of ‘The Wealth of Nations’ – the most famous book by Adam Smith, one of our best-known alumni – is being celebrated at the University throughout 2026.
The work of the pioneering Scot, UofG professor and Rector, and founding father of modern economics, will be marked in a series of events in Scotland and worldwide, designed to inspire renewed discussion about the ideas of Adam Smith (1723–90) and to highlight his life, work and influence.
Smith was developing the thoughts that became ‘The Wealth of Nations’ while a professor at the University, and his work has had a lasting impact on the way the world considers economics, politics and society more broadly.
Professor Andy Schofield is Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University: “’The Wealth of Nations’ brought forward ideas and insights that now feel fundamental, but in Adam Smith’s time were nothing short of transformative. Marking the 250th anniversary of this landmark work is an opportunity for thoughtful, engaging conversations about what his thinking still offers us today and how we can draw on those ideas to tackle the very real challenges facing 21st-century society.”
Highlights from the planned programme of events will include
- Conferences in April and October
- Leading speakers discussing the book that engaged with its time but also speaks to issues of today
- Activities aimed at understanding the legacies of empire in our current world
- An interactive online map game of ‘The World in 1776’
- Walking tours of Glasgow as it was in Smith’s lifetime
- An exhibition from UofG Archives and Glasgow Life collections in partnership with the Centre for Racial and Equality Rights
- Global partner university events across the world in America, Asia, Africa, Europe and Australia
- A school outreach event and student competition.