Lecturer in Philosophy, Dr Sarah Otten will be presenting her research at the upcoming seminar Adam Smith at 300: Insights on the 21st Century Economy from the Father of Economics hosted by Social Justice Ireland on 21st June.

2023 marks the tercentenary of the birth of Adam Smith. Born in 1723, Smith is known as a leading social philosopher and political economist, and is often referred to as the “Father of Economics”. His book, ‘An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations’ (more commonly referred to as ‘The Wealth of Nations’), first published in 1776 is the basis on which much of our current economic thinking is founded.

In her paper, Dr Otten challenges the common assumption that Smith had nothing to say about the alleviation of poverty; that an untrammelled market would take care of all those participating in it, and charity could take care of the rest. Instead, she argues that Smith did recognise that the market affects those in poverty differently than those who are wealthy. In this respect, Smith recommends several actions to ameliorate the effects of the market on the poor, including different forms of taxation.

The event will be Chaired by Social Justice Ireland CEO, Dr. Seán Healy and will take place in the Members’ Room of the The Royal Irish Academy, 19 Dawson Street, Dublin 2, D02 HH58. Admission is free, but registration is advised as places are limited.