Four Introductory Lectures on Political Economy

Delivered as a series of university lectures, this work opens with a sweeping overview of how political economy emerged as a distinct field only a century ago. It traces the early attempts to systematise ideas about wealth, from the French physiocrats and their champion, Quesnay, to the groundbreaking insights of Adam Smith. By contrasting outdated notions that equated national riches with gold and silver against the emerging emphasis on productive labor and free trade, the author sets the stage for a deeper examination of economic thought.

In the first lecture, listeners are guided through the historical forces that have slowed the progress of economic science, seeing how government policies often missed the mark by favoring protectionism over liberty. The discussion moves toward the practical implications for public finance, illustrating how taxes and spending ripple through society. This introductory session promises a clear, thought‑provoking look at the foundations of modern economics, inviting anyone curious about the ideas that still shape policy today.